iPhone 18 Pro pre-orders may open slightly later than Apple’s typical schedule this year, according to a new report. Apple confirmed this week that its fall iPhone event will take place on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, when the new flagship lineup is expected to be unveiled.
Why iPhone 18 Pro Pre-Orders Could Shift to September 12
Apple usually follows a highly predictable timeline for its fall iPhone launches. After the reveal event, pre-orders typically open on the Friday of that same week, with devices shipping the following Friday.
This year, that standard schedule would place pre-orders on Friday, September 11. However, Apple has a history of adjusting its plans when the pre-order date lands on that day. The last time a typical iPhone pre-order fell on September 11, the company moved the launch back by a day to Saturday, September 12.
The likelihood of a similar shift may be even higher in 2026, which marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. A report citing a reliable source indicates that iPhone 18 Pro pre-orders will indeed begin on Saturday, September 12.
A Possible Change to the Pre-Order Time
Beyond the date, the report suggests the start time may also change. Pre-orders normally open at 5 a.m. PT, but Apple is reportedly planning to launch pre-sales at midnight PT that Saturday.
That specific timing detail should be treated with some caution. The same source previously misreported the release date of the iPhone 17e earlier this year, so while September 12 appears probable, the exact start time could differ.
What to Expect From the September 9 Event
The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are the headline products anticipated at the event, alongside a range of rumored new features. With the official announcement now confirmed, buyers are less than two weeks away from Apple’s full unveiling of the next-generation lineup.
Apple’s iPhone event is scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, 2026.
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Image: 9to5mac.com
