The iPhone is facing one of the biggest transitions in its history. In the next three years, Apple could embark on three completely new design directions. The company is planning an ultra-thin iPhone Air, a foldable iPhone, and a 20th anniversary model. This would mark three consecutive years of significant changes, significantly disrupting the previous release cycle.
Since the iPhone 3G, Apple has followed a familiar cycle: major innovations, minor updates, and sometimes a single design has even persisted across multiple generations. One example is the iPhone 16, which looks almost unmistakably similar to models since the iPhone 12. But according to Bloomberg , this rhythm is now set to change. The next few years are expected to be characterized by at least one model per generation that clearly distinguishes itself from previous iPhones.
iPhone 17 Air – 2025 marks the beginning of a new era
The iPhone 17 Air will be the first to be launched this fall. It's expected to be particularly slim and light, featuring a new camera bar design for the first time. The focus is clearly on a thinner casing, but this will likely come at the expense of battery life. In terms of specifications, it's expected to feature an A19 processor, a slower USB-C port, and Apple's new C1 modem. Despite the innovative design, it remains a standard iPhone, placing it firmly in the classic iPhone lineup.
iPhone Fold – the first folding model will be released in 2026
The iPhone Fold, the first foldable iPhone, could be released in 2026. Along with the iPhone 18 series, this would allow Apple to enter a segment previously dominated by Samsung. The device is expected to have an external display and a larger, internal display that becomes visible when unfolded. When unfolded, it resembles an iPad mini but retains key design features of the iPhone. Touch ID is also expected to return so that the foldable iPhone can be unlocked regardless of orientation – a feature that many have long anticipated.
iPhone 20 – anniversary model 2027
The iPhone will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2027. Apple could skip the iPhone 19 name and go straight to the iPhone 20 or even the iPhone XX. This would continue the tradition of celebrating anniversaries with special models, similar to the iPhone X's tenth anniversary. Few details have been revealed so far. Rumors speak of rounded edges, which are intended to harmonize with the Liquid Glass material introduced in iOS 26. This would be a clear departure from the angular design that has dominated the iPhone 12 since the iPhone 13.
Between tradition and innovation
While the eye-catching special editions will likely make headlines, the classic versions with time-tested designs are likely to continue to account for the majority of sales. Nevertheless, with at least one exceptional model per year, Apple could drive demand and demonstrate that innovation in the iPhone sector is far from over. This trend is supported by advances in Apple's operating system and the expansion of Apple Intelligence. This technology is still in its early stages, but it lays the foundation for the next ten years and the next billion iPhones sold.
Three years, three major iPhone changes
The iPhone is facing a phase of fundamental change. Between 2025 and 2027, three models could be released, each significantly different from its predecessor: the iPhone 17 Air, the iPhone Fold, and the iPhone 20. With this strategy, Apple is breaking the old cycle, bringing a breath of fresh air to design, and combining hardware innovations with a clear focus on new software and artificial intelligence. This ushers in a new era for the iPhone that both preserves its old strengths and sets new standards. (Image: Shutterstock / fvcksht)
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