Apple is preparing one of the largest transformations in the entire history of the iPhone
According to analytical reports and leaks from Bloomberg, The Information, and leading insiders, Apple will change not only its device lineup in 2026–2027, but also the entire release strategy. Instead of launching all models at once, the company plans to separate base and Pro versions over time, introduce new form factors, and prepare a special anniversary iPhone for the 20th anniversary of the lineup.
This approach allows Apple to manage demand more precisely, reduce manufacturing risks, and maintain user attention throughout the entire year. For the market, it means more launches, more choice, and a gradual transition toward a new device ecosystem where iPhone, Mac, and the smart home are more tightly integrated.
Spring 2026: iPhone 17e, MacBook Air M5, and Apple’s first smart home hub
Apple plans to use early 2026 to refresh its base and mass-market products. According to insiders, the company will finally abandon the classic iPhone SE concept in favor of a new e lineup. This allows Apple to offer a more affordable iPhone without outdated design elements while keeping modern features.
At the same time, a major update to MacBook Air and iPad is expected, along with the launch of an entirely new product category — a smart home hub with a display. This device could become a central element of Apple’s future HomeOS ecosystem and a direct competitor to Google Nest Hub and Amazon Echo Show.
- iphone 17e: a budget model with a glass body, magsafe support, dynamic island, and the a19 chip;
- macbook air m5: refreshed 13-inch and 15-inch models based on the new generation of apple silicon;
- ipad 12: a base tablet powered by the a18 chip with a focus on battery life;
- smart home hub: a screen-equipped device for controlling homekit and apple services based on homeos.
The spring 2026 release looks like a preparatory phase ahead of far more ambitious announcements in the fall. Apple is testing new formats, updating mass-market products, and preparing users for a shift in the iPhone release cycle.
Fall 2026: iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone Fold, and new MacBook Pro models
September 2026 could become one of the most important moments for Apple in the past decade. During this period, the company is expected to unveil not only new flagship iPhones but also its first foldable smartphone. According to Bloomberg, Apple delayed this step for years while waiting for display and hinge technologies to mature.
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are rumored to be transitional models toward a fully bezel-less design. Under-display Face ID is expected, allowing Apple to reduce or completely eliminate the cutout in future generations.
- iphone 18 pro and 18 pro max: under-display face id and a variable aperture camera;
- iphone fold: a book-style foldable smartphone with an internal display of around 7.7 inches and a price range of $2000–2400;
- macbook pro m5 pro / m5 max: professional laptops with significantly improved performance;
- apple watch series 12 and ultra 4: evolutionary updates focused on health and durability.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo notes that while iPhone Fold may be announced in fall 2026, mass shipments could shift to 2027 due to manufacturing complexity. This highlights Apple’s cautious approach to new form factors.
Spring 2027: a new strategy for base iPhones and iPhone Air 2
The change in Apple’s release schedule will become especially noticeable in 2027. The company plans to launch base iPhone models six months after Pro versions, allowing for clearer audience segmentation and reducing internal competition between models.
Apple is also paying special attention to the Air lineup. After the experimental launch of the first iPhone Air in 2025, the second generation is expected to be more affordable and practical.
- iphone 18 and 18e: base models launching in spring rather than fall;
- iphone air 2: a thinner body, lower price, and a second camera;
- airtag 2: improved tracking accuracy and extended range.
This strategy allows Apple to remain in the spotlight throughout the year and gradually refresh its ecosystem without abrupt changes for users.
Fall 2027: the anniversary iPhone 20 and a MacBook Pro redesign
The year 2027 will be special for Apple, as the iPhone turns 20 years old. The company traditionally uses milestone anniversaries to showcase its most ambitious ideas, and expectations are extremely high this time.
According to The Information, iPhone 20 could become Apple’s first fully “all-screen” smartphone without cutouts or holes. At the same time, major changes are expected in the MacBook Pro lineup.
- iphone 20: a completely bezel-less design, under-display camera, and a glass body wrapping around all edges;
- macbook pro m6: a potential transition to oled displays and the introduction of touchscreens.
Anniversary products could define Apple’s direction for years to come. If these plans materialize, 2027 may become a turning point for the entire Apple ecosystem.
What to keep in mind about these leaks
All the information presented is based on analytical reports, supply chain data, and comments from well-known insiders. At the same time, Apple may adjust its plans depending on market conditions, technological constraints, and geopolitical factors.
However, the overall trend is clear: Apple is moving toward a more flexible, multi-year release strategy where each product has a defined role and timing. For users, this means more choice; for the market, a new standard in flagship planning.
The next two years promise to be among the most exciting in Apple’s history. If the company manages to deliver even most of this roadmap, we will see not just new iPhones, but a genuine shift in paradigm.
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