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2026 is shaping up to be an unusual year for the iPhone. Several new models are planned, one of which will be released significantly earlier. At the same time, Apple is postponing a model that is usually a regular part of the annual release schedule. This overview shows which devices are expected and which technical innovations are likely.
Rumors about upcoming iPhones often surface long before the official unveiling. For 2026, a relatively clear picture is already emerging. The most striking aspect is the mix of classic enhancements and a completely new form factor. The following information summarizes the latest reports and shows how the iPhone lineup could change next year.
iPhone 17e: the early start to the year
The iPhone 17e is expected to be the first new iPhone of the year and will be released unusually early. It follows the iPhone 16e and is the final member of the iPhone 17 family. Several improvements are planned compared to its predecessor. These include the A19 chip instead of the previous A18, the Dynamic Island instead of the notch, a center-mounted front camera, and thinner bezels for a more modern design.
The device remains clearly positioned below the base iPhone 17. The back still only features a single camera. The display doesn't support ProMotion or the Always-On feature. The new camera controls expected on the more expensive models are also missing. Despite these limitations, the iPhone 17e, with an expected price of €699, could be an attractive option for those who prefer a current iPhone at a lower price.
iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max: Focus on technology and efficiency
The new flagship models are expected to be released in the fall of 2026, as usual. According to recent reports, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will build on the success of the iPhone 17 Pro and improve upon several aspects without fundamentally changing the design.
Planned features include larger batteries, an A20 Pro chip with 2nm technology, a smaller Dynamic Island (possibly consisting of a single camera cutout), and Face ID integrated under the display. The glass back is expected to be more seamlessly integrated, resulting in a cleaner look. A variable aperture camera and a new C2 cellular modem are also planned.
The models thus remain classic further developments, focusing primarily on increased performance, a more modern front design and improved camera technology.
iPhone Fold: a new form factor
After years of rumors, a foldable iPhone is expected to be released in 2026. The iPhone Fold is clearly aimed at the high-end market. The starting price is estimated at around $2,000 or more. The device is expected to resemble the iPhone Air visually and feature an exceptionally thin titanium frame.
The inner display measures approximately 7.6 inches, the outer one around 5.4 inches. The design follows a book-like form factor and is said to be free of any visible crease in the screen. Reports also indicate one of the largest batteries Apple has ever installed in an iPhone. However, since the form factor is new and two displays need to be powered, it remains to be seen whether this will automatically translate into longer battery life.
Inside, it uses the same A20 Pro chip as the Pro models. The camera setup includes two rear cameras and two front cameras, one per display. Since two separate displays and additional components leave less space for sensors, Apple is expected to use Touch ID instead of Face ID on the iPhone Fold.
A base iPhone 18 will be missing in 2026
Normally, not only the Pro models but also a regular, more affordable iPhone are released in the fall. However, this model is not expected in 2026. According to current information, the base iPhone 18 is not expected until early 2027. A simultaneous launch with the iPhone 18e and possibly the iPhone Air 2 is planned. The high-end devices will remain in the fall of 2026, while the more affordable models could be delayed until spring 2027.
2026 as a turning point in the iPhone lineup
2026 marks a phase for the iPhone in which new categories emerge and existing models diverge further. The early iPhone 17e, the technically advanced iPhone 18 Pro devices, and the all-new iPhone Fold demonstrate three distinct directions the lineup is taking. The postponement of the base iPhone 18 to 2027 also illustrates Apple's more flexible approach to its release cycle. For the entire iPhone series, this means a year less predictable and instead revealing new strategies. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those compatible with HomeKit. (Image: JDunbarPhoto / DepositPhotos.com)
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