A couple of new reports suggest that Apple might change its iPhone launch schedule, with higher-end models debuting in the fall and entry-level iPhones in the spring. This shift would align with Apple’s strategy for budget iPhones like the iPhone SE family and the new iPhone 16e. Additionally, Apple is rumored to introduce its base-model iPhone alongside the new e-series.
The iPhone 17 lineup is expected to follow the usual schedule, with the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max launching in September, along with a new “iPhone 17 Air” replacing the iPhone Plus. However, in 2026, Apple may introduce its long-awaited “iPhone Fold,” potentially leading to a change in the lineup.
According to reports from Wayne Ma and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPhone 18 might be pushed to the spring of 2027, released alongside the iPhone 18e. The “iPhone 18 Air” is still expected to debut in September 2026, along with the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and “iPhone 18 Fold.”
- 2H25: iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Slim, iPhone 17
- 1H26: iPhone 17e
- 2H26: iPhone Foldable, iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Slim
- 1H27: iPhone 18, iPhone 18e
- 2H27: iPhone Foldable 2, iPhone 19 Pro Max, iPhone 19 Pro, iPhone 19 Slim (with a larger display vs. 18 Slim)
It is speculated that Apple is considering this shift to ease the strain on its manufacturing facilities as it adds more devices to its lineup. This change may also help boost sales of Apple’s higher-end iPhones by spacing out the release of more affordable models.
Kuo also mentions that Apple aims to address the “marketing gap” created by competitors releasing flagship phones in the first half of the year. Apple has previously used mid-cycle color refreshes to drive sales but has shifted away from this strategy in recent years.
Apple’s fall release cycles have been consistent over the years, with most iPhones launching in September. The iPhone SE models, however, have been released in March and April. The iPhone 16e, released in February, deviated from this pattern, possibly due to external factors like regulatory mandates.
The rumored changes in Apple’s iPhone lineup indicate a shift in strategy to accommodate new devices like the “iPhone Fold.” These adjustments may impact Apple’s supply chain and marketing efforts, leading to a reshuffling of release schedules in the coming years.
[The information provided in this article has NOT been confirmed by Apple and may be speculation. Take all rumors with a grain of salt.]
