Apple’s annual iPhone release schedule has remained unchanged for years, but changes have begun, with rumors suggesting more iPhone refreshes are on the way.
New iPhone models and release schedules will test Apple’s undisclosed location
Starting last year with the introduction of the iPhone 16e and iPhone Air, Apple began to deviate from its well-established iPhone patterns.
Starting in 2020, Apple launched four new flagship iPhones every fall: two ‘regular’ iPhones and two Pro models. For a while it also sold the iPhone SE, but the budget model was rarely updated.
But in early 2025, the iPhone 16e arrived as a new member of the lineup. It was launched in February, not September, and it wasn’t the same thing as the iPhone SE. Instead, as the iPhone 17e recently proved, it was part of a new pattern for the year.
Then in the fall of 2025, the iPhone Air launched and shook up the previous lineup of two standard iPhones and two Pros.
For a product as important to Apple’s business as the iPhone, these changes were risks.
But rumors indicate that there are more dangers to come.
This fall, we only expect two or three new iPhones to launch:
- iPhone 18 Pro
- iPhone 18 Pro Max
- and the iPhone Fold, although it may come later
The first foldable iPhone is already dangerous because of its new form factor. But one analyst suggests it may not launch until December, adding another deviation from Apple’s usual iPhone pattern.
After that in the spring of 2027, three more iPhones are expected:
- iPhone 18e
- iPhone 18
- iPhone Air 2
And in the fall of 2027, the rumored ‘iPhone 20’ is coming along with other models. It is expected to have a completely bezel-less display, with a screen that wraps around the bezels. It’s unclear what Apple will call the new model, or how it will fit into the existing lineup.
Finally, recent reports claim that a flip-style foldable iPhone has also been tested by Apple. Although any such product may be for a few years or more.
The iPhone roadmap: The best innovation, or bloated and confusing?
If you’re keeping track, we’re looking at six or more new iPhones that launch each year or more:
- iPhone e
- The iPhone
- iPhone Air
- iPhone Pro
- iPhone Pro Max
- iPhone Fold
- ‘iPhone 20,’ possibly called iPhone Ultra
- maybe an ‘iPhone Flip’
There are two main ways I’ve been thinking about these rumored changes. They can be:
- creating confusion and division in Apple’s most important product
- or to bring innovation and diversity after years of ‘boredom’ and limited programmes
Personally, I’m not sure where I sit on the spectrum. In some ways, both seem to be true.
I love my iPhone Air, and I’m glad that Apple designed a new model that feels really unique. But the Air didn’t sell well either, and I can see why. The iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro fit right in with Apple’s previous models and have clear stories. The product story of the iPhone Air is unclear.
I’m also very excited about the launch of two major new iPhones in the next 18 months: the first foldable model, and the rumored ‘iPhone 20.’ Each sounds like it could change the iPhone experience in new ways.
I want these new species to exist. But at the same time I feel that the iPhone line is bloated and confusing.
Apple’s plans can always change, but based on what we know now, I’m excited to see how the iPhone lineup shakes out with so many new models coming out.
What do you think of Apple’s rumored iPhone roadmap? Let us know in the comments.
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