iPhone 18 Pro enters trial production ahead of possible 2027 debut

Apple’s next-generation iPhone 18 Pro has reportedly moved into the trial production phase, even as the iPhone 17 has only just arrived on the market.

According to claims shared by Chinese leaker “Fixed Focus Digital” on Weibo, the Pro models are undergoing mass-production testing, placing them in the later stages of manufacturing validation ahead of a potential September release cycle.

February is said to mark a key transition for Apple Inc. as it shifts from the Design Validation Test (DVT) stage to early Production Validation Test (PVT). During PVT, assembly lines are partially activated to verify manufacturing processes and quality control standards. Full-scale production typically ramps up in the summer in preparation for an autumn launch.

The leaker also suggested that production testing has started for the standard iPhone 18 variant, though that model is not expected to debut until early 2027. It is believed to be in an earlier validation stage, likely mid-to-late Engineering Validation Test (EVT).

In terms of design, the iPhone 18 Pro is not anticipated to introduce sweeping visual changes. Reports indicate it will largely follow the design language of the iPhone 17 lineup, with only limited scope for exterior refinements such as a smaller Dynamic Island.

However, significant upgrades are expected internally. These reportedly include a revamped camera system featuring a variable aperture, a new A20 chip and a custom C2 modem.

Despite the anticipated improvements, the iPhone 18 Pro may not command the spotlight at Apple’s next major launch event in March, where the company’s first foldable device is tipped to take centre stage.