iPhone 14 Expected to Launch Tomorrow. But When Is the Release Date?

This story is part of Focal Point iPhone 2022, CNET’s collection of news, tips and advice around Apple’s most popular product.

Apple is likely a day away from announcing its new iPhone. The iPhone 14 line, including Pro, Max and Pro Max versions, is expected to launch at Apple’s “Far Out” event on Wednesday, Sept. 7. If you’re thinking about buying a new iPhone, you’ll likely want to wait to get the official new details on the iPhone 14 — but when exactly will it be released?

Because iPhones usually go up for preorder on the Fridays of the same week of its event, we’d expect that to happen this year on Friday, Sept. 9. iPhone release dates are usually a week and a half after Apple’s announcements, or a week after the preorder date. Sometimes launch dates are staggered for specific models, especially when introducing a new design or size. So it’s possible the iPhone 14 lineup will have more than one release date.

This year’s event also follows the Labor Day hypothesis that CNET has been diving into since 2018. It hasn’t always followed suit, as the hypothesis didn’t come true in 2020 or 2021, and it’s still possible that reported supply chain issues for the iPhone 14 could impact its eventual release date. A recent Bloomberg report, however, suggested the Sept. 7 launch along with a release date of Sept. 16. Noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has quelled some of those supply chain fears, saying it should only have a “limited” impact, in a July post on Twitter.

For a more in-depth look at iPhone rumors, check out every rumor we’ve heard about Apple’s iPhone 14 and our story on whether there will be a foldable iPhone. Also, check out whether you should upgrade to an iPhone 12 or 13 this year, if you’re not interested in the rumored iPhone 14.