Apple's next premium smartphones, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, are reported to have entered mass production ahead of a September launch.

On July 22, IT outlet 9to5Mac reported that Apple assembly partner Foxconn is offering large bonuses to secure returning workers as it ramps up production.

The key point is that launch preparations have moved beyond prototype output into full-scale mass production. A supply chain report said the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max have already entered the mass production stage. That increases the likelihood that Apple's second-half product launch schedule will follow a pattern similar to previous years.

Foxconn is rapidly increasing seasonal hiring, especially centered on its Zhengzhou plant in China. iPhone assembly requires a large workforce over a short period each year ahead of a new product launch. Foxconn and other Apple manufacturing partners typically offer higher hourly wages than usual during this period and also provide substantial one-time bonuses to encourage workers from rural areas to move to Zhengzhou.

Stronger compensation for returning workers is seen as a step to speed up the production ramp. Supply chain sources mentioned that Foxconn is offering substantial bonuses to returning workers to push hiring to peak levels. As production of Apple's new iPhone moves into full swing, assembly line operations also appear to be shifting into peak-season mode.

Employment arrangements at production sites are also drawing attention again. Seasonal contract workers typically live in dormitories for about 3 months and handle assembly work. Wages paid during this period are reported to be significantly higher than what they could earn locally. It appears that Apple's supply chain is again relying this year on large-scale short-term labour ahead of a new product launch.

On the product side, some changes are also expected along with performance improvements. The iPhone 18 Pro is being discussed as possibly featuring a more powerful chip and display upgrades. However, existing reports have also suggested the next flagship could become thicker and heavier than the previous model. Some forecast that the absence of black or dark gray colour options that began with the iPhone 17 Pro could continue.

These changes are attracting more attention in terms of product strategy than a simple specification update. A key point to watch is how Apple balances consumer-facing elements such as design, weight and colour options as it pursues performance upgrades and component changes. With the Pro lineup a product category with both strong demand and profitability, market attention is expected to continue on how final specifications are set after mass production begins.