Apple’s annual iPhone release blueprint has been pretty consistent for years, but changes have already begun, with rumors of even more iPhone overhauls on the way.
New iPhone models and release schedule explore uncharted territory for Apple
Since the introduction of the iPhone 16e and iPhone Air last year, Apple has begun to deviate from established iPhone patterns.
Since 2020, Apple has launched four new flagship iPhones (two “standard” iPhones and two Pro models) every fall. For a while, the iPhone SE was also sold, but the low-priced model was rarely updated.
But in early 2025, the iPhone 16e arrived as a new member of the lineup. It was released in February rather than September, and was not a one-off product like the iPhone SE. Instead, it was part of a new annual pattern, as the iPhone 17e proved.
And in fall 2025, iPhone Air launches, refreshing 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 a risk.
But rumors say there are more risks looming.
Only two or three new iPhones are expected to be released this fall.
- iPhone18 pro
- iPhone 18 Pro Max
- and iPhone Fold (may arrive a little later)
The first foldable iPhone already has risks because it’s an entirely new form factor. However, one analyst suggests it may not be released until December, potentially further deviating from Apple’s usual iPhone patterns.
And three more iPhones are expected to arrive in spring 2027.
- iPhone18e
- iPhone18
- iPhone Air2
And in the fall of 2027, the rumored “iPhone 20” is scheduled to be released along with other models. It is expected to feature a completely cutout-free display with a screen surrounding the bezels. It’s unclear what Apple will call this new model or how it will fit into its existing lineup.
Finally, recent reports suggest that a flip-style folding iPhone is also being tested by Apple. However, such products may be several years away.
iPhone roadmap: Is innovation at its best or bloated and confusing?
If you’ve been keeping track, you’ll know that around six or more new iPhones are released every year.
- iPhone e
- iPhone
- iPhone Air
- iPhone pro
- iPhone Pro Max
- Fold your iPhone
- “iPhone 20”, possibly named iPhone Ultra
- Maybe there will also be an “iPhone Flip”
There are two main ways I’ve been thinking about these rumored changes. They are either:
- Causing confusion and fragmentation in Apple’s most important products
- Or herald a welcome innovation and diversification after years of more “boring” and limited lineups
Personally, I don’t know where I land on the spectrum. In some ways, both seem true.
I love the iPhone Air, so I’m glad that Apple designed a new model that feels truly unique. But the Air also didn’t sell well. I can see why. The iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro fit neatly into Apple’s previous pattern and have a clear story to tell. The iPhone Air’s product story is vague.
I’m also very excited to see two major new iPhones announced in the next 18 months, the first foldable model and the rumored “iPhone 20.” Each sound has the potential to completely revamp your iPhone experience in innovative ways.
I wish new models like this existed. But I also worry that the iPhone lineup will become bloated and confusing.
Apple’s plans are subject to change at any time, but based on what we know so far, we’re excited to see how the iPhone lineup evolves in this era of many new models debuting.
What do you think about Apple’s rumored iPhone roadmap? Let us know in the comments.
best iphone accessories
