Apple is reportedly preparing to start early production testing for the iPhone 18 much sooner than its typical annual schedule, according to new supply chain rumors from China.

The information was first shared by well-known tech leaker Fixed Focus Digital on the Chinese social media platform Weibo. Citing sources within Apple’s supply chain, the report claims the company plans to begin testing select production lines as early as January 2026.

If accurate, the move would mark a significant shift for Apple, which traditionally unveils new iPhone models in September.

Mass production targeted ahead of Lunar New Year 2026

According to reports from multiple global technology outlets, Apple will not activate all production lines simultaneously. Instead, testing is expected to roll out gradually, with production lines coming online one at a time.

This phased approach is intended to ensure manufacturing stability and product readiness before transitioning to full-scale mass production.

The report adds that Apple is targeting full mass production ahead of Lunar New Year 2026, which falls on February 17. It also claims that a dedicated production line for the iPhone 18 Pro has already been prepared, suggesting advanced planning for the higher-end model.

Early production timeline doesn’t signal major design changes

Despite the accelerated production schedule, leaks suggest the iPhone 18 lineup may not feature major external design changes. Sources indicate that the overall look and form factor are expected to remain largely consistent with previous generations.

This may surprise some observers who typically associate early manufacturing timelines with significant design overhauls or complex hardware upgrades.

As Apple has not officially commented on the report, the information should be treated with caution. More reliable details are expected to surface closer to mid-2026, according to GSM Arena.