Apple is apparently working on a new iPhone redesign, scheduled to be released for its 20th anniversary in 2027. There are indications that the iPhone 19 Pro could follow a similar direction to the iPhone X in 2017—meaning a significant departure from the previous design. This information comes from a Bloomberg report citing internal sources. The changes affect both the chassis and possible new model variants, including a foldable iPhone.
To mark its 10th anniversary, Apple released the iPhone X in 2017. The device marked a clear break with the past: the home button was eliminated, the display was almost bezel-less, and for the first time, the price exceeded $1,000. These innovations shaped the smartphone market for the next few years. Now another anniversary is upon us—20 years of the iPhone. And Apple appears to be preparing for another major redesign. While not everything will be revolutionary immediately, several clues point to profound changes starting in 2027.
iPhone 2027: What we know so far
New design with more glass
Apple is said to be working on a fundamentally new design for the iPhone, which is scheduled to launch in 2027. The goal is to mark the anniversary with a visible change. The focus will be on a new Pro model, which will rely more heavily on glass than previous models. Whether the entire casing will be made of glass or just parts of it is still unclear. The idea of a completely glass iPhone has been around internally at Apple for some time – initial speculation about it arose in 2017 with the iPhone X.
Foldable iPhone still in planning
In addition to the glass iPhone, according to several sources, Apple is still working on a foldable iPhone – the so-called iPhone Fold. It was originally expected to be released as early as 2025. These estimates come from well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, for example. Recently, however, several rumors have agreed that the foldable iPhone will not appear until 2026 or 2027. Bloomberg assumes that Apple could use the anniversary year of 2027 for the launch. That would be eight years after Samsung's first Galaxy Fold. A foldable iPad and a foldable MacBook Pro are also being discussed for this period. Analyst Jeff Pu also sees these devices on the schedule for 2026 or 2027. This would mean Apple is jumping into an already established market, but likely with a more mature version than the competition.
iOS 19 brings new design concept
Parallel to the hardware, there could also be some changes in the software. The launch of iOS 19 is planned for 2025 – presumably during WWDC in June. According to reports, this update will feature a glass-like design that could match the new casing concept of future iPhones. It's conceivable that Apple is already setting the visual direction for the iPhone 19 Pro (via Bloomberg).
No immediate change – gradual change likely
Even though many changes are in the pipeline, it's unlikely that Apple will completely switch to the new design with the iPhone 17 or iPhone 18. Current indications point more toward a gradual adjustment. For example, the iPhone 17 Pro—which will be released in September—is expected to feature more glass than previous models. This would be a first visible step toward the design that could be fully implemented in 2027. Apple could therefore gradually work toward the anniversary model over several years, both in terms of hardware and software. A major leap is not expected until the iPhone 19 Pro.
Anniversary year 2027: The iPhone faces a new beginning
The 2027 iPhone is likely to be an important model for Apple. A major redesign is expected for the iPhone's 20th anniversary, one that could break new ground both visually and technically. Particular focus is on a new Pro model with a glass casing and a foldable iPhone. Even though there are currently many rumors about the exact appearance and features, one thing is clear: Apple is preparing a major change behind the scenes – similar to the iPhone X almost a decade ago. With the introduction of iOS 19 and the first design adjustments for upcoming iPhones, the change should become apparent in the coming years. 2027 could then be the year in which Apple once again demonstrates what it envisions a modern iPhone to look like. (Photo by Unsplash / wilsan u)
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