Apple’s Rumored iPhone Roadmap Reveals Big Repairs Coming – 9to5Mac

The schedule for Apple’s annual iPhone releases has remained fairly consistent over the years, but changes have already begun, and rumor has it that even more iPhone overhauls are on the way.

New iPhone models and release schedules will explore uncharted territory for Apple

Starting last year with the introduction of the iPhone 16e and iPhone Air, Apple began to deviate from its well-established iPhone models.

Since 2020, Apple has launched four new flagship iPhones every fall: two ‘standard’ iPhones and two Pro models. For a while it also sold the iPhone SE, but the budget model was rarely updated.

But in early 2025, the iPhone 16e arrived as a new member of the lineup. It launched in February, not September, and it wasn’t the only one like the iPhone SE. Instead, like the iPhone 17e just triedit was part of a new annual pattern.

Then, in the fall of 2025, the iPhone Air launched and shook up the previous lineup of two standard iPhones and two Pros.

For a product as important to Apple’s business as the iPhone, these changes were risks.

But rumors indicate that even more dangers are coming.

This fall, we expect only two or three new iPhones to be launched:

• iPhone 18 Pro
• iPhone 18 Pro Max
• and the iPhone Fold, although it may arrive a little later

The first foldable iPhone is already a risk due to being a new form factor. But an analyst suggests may not launch until December, adding another twist to Apple’s normal iPhone model.

Then in the spring of 2027, three more iPhones are expected:

• iPhone 18e
• iPhone 18
• iPhone Air 2

And in the fall of 2027, the rumored ‘iPhone 20’ is coming alongside other models. It is expected to have a completely notchless display, with a display that wraps around the bezels. It’s unclear what Apple will call this new model, or how it will fit into the existing lineup.

Finally, recent reports say that a roll-style foldable iPhone is also being tested by Apple. Though any such product is likely a few years away or more.

The iPhone roadmap: Innovation at its best, or bloated and confusing?

If you’re keeping track, we’re looking at six or more new iPhones to be released every year or so:

1. iPhone e
2. iPhone
3. iPhone Air
4. iPhone Pro
5. iPhone Pro Max
6. iPhone Fold
7. ‘iPhone 20’, possibly called iPhone Ultra
8. maybe even an ‘iPhone Flip’

There are two main ways I have thought about these rumored changes. They are either:

• creating confusion and fragmentation in Apple’s most important product
• or introducing welcome innovation and diversification after years of more ‘boring’ and limited lineups

Personally, I’m not sure where I fall on the spectrum. In some respects, both seem true.

I love my iPhone Air and I’m glad Apple created a new model that feels really unique. But the Air hasn’t sold well either, and I can see why. The iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro fit Apple’s previous models well and have clear histories. The history of the iPhone Air product is unclear.

I’m also very excited about the introduction of two big new iPhones in the next 18 months: the first foldable model and the rumored ‘iPhone 20’. Each sounds likely to overhaul the iPhone experience in innovative ways.

I want these new models to exist. But I’m at the same time suspicious that the iPhone line becomes bloated and confusing.

Apple’s plans can always change, but based on what we know now, I’m fascinated to see how the iPhone lineup shakes out in this era of multiple new model debuts.

What are your thoughts on Apple’s rumored iPhone roadmap? Tell us in the comments.

The best iPhone accessories