Apple's future plans for the iPhone have been leaked – and they're bigger than anything seen before. An internal memo leaked last year hinted at how ambitious Apple's plans for its next iPhone generations are. Now there are concrete leaks confirming this roadmap. In the coming years, not only will more iPhones be launched, but also new models, design changes, and technologies that will significantly expand the product line.
Last fall, an internal document surfaced in which John Ternus, Apple's hardware chief, described the current iPhone planning as the "most ambitious in the product's history." Recently, further details emerged. Two well-known sources, Wayne Ma and renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, have independently released concrete information on the upcoming iPhone roadmap. What they report shows: Apple is fundamentally changing its product strategy. Instead of a traditional fall release, there will be two major release waves per year—in spring and fall. And the model range will be larger than ever before.
What does the iPhone 17 series bring
The iPhone 17 series is already largely known. As usual, it will consist of the regular iPhone 17, the iPhone 17 Pro, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max. A fourth model is new: the iPhone 17 Air. This model is said to be particularly thin and light and is likely aimed at users who value a sleek design. The new iPhones are expected to be released this year.
Spring 2026: Launch of the iPhone 17e
Apple is planning another new model for spring 2026: the iPhone 17e. This is apparently a more affordable version with which Apple intends to expand its spring release schedule. The strategy is clear: Instead of only presenting new models in the fall, Apple wants to supply the market with new devices throughout the year.
Fall 2026: four new iPhones
According to the roadmap, four more models will be released in autumn 2026:
- iPhone 18 Air: same format as the 17 Air
- iPhone 18 Pro: with “corner punch”, i.e. without the previous large notch or dynamic island
- iPhone 18 Pro Max: similar design to the Pro, but larger
- iPhone 18 Fold: the first foldable iPhone ever
The iPhone 18 Fold, in particular, is a milestone. It officially marks Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone market, where Samsung has led for years. Apple has been hesitant so far, but now appears to be planning a competitive product.
Spring 2027: Basic models move forward
The next step will be two new models in spring 2027: the iPhone 18 and the iPhone 18e. This marks the first time Apple has permanently shifted the traditional base model to the spring period. The advantage for the company: less dependence on year-end business and more flexibility in product placement.
Autumn 2027: the next expansion stage
The models planned for autumn 2027 follow the structure from the previous year:
- iPhone 19 Air: with a larger display
- iPhone 19 Pro: possibly for the first time without a camera cutout
- iPhone 19 Pro Max: High-end model at the cutting edge
- iPhone 19 Fold: second-generation foldable iPhone
Especially with the iPhone 19 Pro, there is speculation that Apple could realize the long-awaited “all-screen” design – a display without a notch, camera opening or other visible interruptions.
Six iPhones per year: that's new
In summary, the new roadmap means that Apple plans to launch six new iPhones every year starting in 2027. Two in the spring and four in the fall. Apple apparently wants to appeal to new buyer groups while simultaneously accelerating innovation cycles. For users, this means more choice, more release dates, and more new technology.
Why this new strategy?
iPhone sales have barely increased in recent years. Despite stable sales, the growth Apple is accustomed to is lacking. The new roadmap is therefore also a strategic attempt to redesign the product cycle and inject more momentum into the market. However, hardware alone isn't enough. Apple will also need to showcase new software features and AI innovations in the coming months to make the overall package compelling.
Two releases per year: How Apple is changing the iPhone cycle
If the leaks are confirmed, Apple is facing one of the biggest changes in iPhone history. More models, new designs, and, above all, a foldable iPhone show that Apple is ready to break new ground. For you as a user, this means: It's no longer just an exciting once-a-year release, but at least twice a year. And you'll have more choice than ever before – from affordable entry-level devices to high-end foldables. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Ringo Chiu)
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