Apple’s iPhone lineup is on the brink of a significant transformation over the next few years. Here is an overview of what’s expected, not just this fall but beyond.

2025: iPhone 17 Air debuts as a new ultra-thin model, iPhone 17 Pro Max gets thicker

The year 2025 is already shaping up to be a milestone for the iPhone. Earlier this year, Apple introduced the iPhone 16e – a brand-new model replacing the iPhone SE as the company’s budget-friendly option.

However, it’s this fall that marks the most significant changes to the iPhone lineup, with four models expected to launch: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max.

While the Pro models will retain their high price points in exchange for advanced features, the spotlight may be stolen by the iPhone 17 Air – an all-new ultra-thin model.

Set to replace the Plus line, the iPhone 17 Air will likely come with a slightly higher price tag but offer the thinnest design in iPhone history at just 5.6mm thick, exuding a futuristic aesthetic.

However, this ultra-slim design comes with compromises, particularly in battery life and camera performance.

In these areas, the 17 Air may fall short compared to other models, especially the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which is expected to be the thickest ever to accommodate a larger battery and improved performance.

2026: First foldable iPhone arrives, standard iPhone 18 dropped

Apple is expected to release another new model in early 2026: the iPhone 17e, the successor to the 16e.

This model continues Apple’s strategy of offering key features from the iPhone 17 at a more affordable price, albeit with some compromises.

Still, the fall 2026 lineup is where things get truly exciting, with four anticipated models: iPhone 18 Air, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the first-ever iPhone 18 Fold.

Notably absent is the standard iPhone 18. The debut of the foldable iPhone – iPhone Fold – has prompted Apple to delay the release of the base model.

Rumored specifications for the iPhone Fold include a 7.8-inch internal screen, a 5.5-inch external display, a book-style foldable design with minimal crease visibility, and a premium price point.

Meanwhile, the iPhone 18 Air is expected to maintain the design and ergonomics of the 17 Air. However, the two Pro models might feature a significant design shift: the removal of the "Dynamic Island" in favor of a single punch-hole in the corner of the screen, allowing for a more seamless display experience.

2027: Six iPhone models, full-screen design, larger Air display

Apple is expected to set a new record in 2027 by releasing six iPhone models in a single year.

In spring 2027, Apple could unveil the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e. These lower-cost models will arrive a few months after the premium iPhone 18 Air, Pro, and Fold introduced the previous year.

Then, in the fall, Apple is expected to release the iPhone 19 Air, iPhone 19 Pro, iPhone 19 Pro Max, and iPhone 19 Fold.

The iPhone 19 lineup will feature notable upgrades, including a larger display for the iPhone 19 Air and a full-screen design without notches or punch-holes for the iPhone 19 Pro and 19 Pro Max.

If Apple can commercialize its first bezel-free, hole-free iPhone by 2027, it would mark a major milestone—coinciding with the iPhone’s 20th anniversary and exactly 10 years after the iPhone X, which ushered in the edge-to-edge screen revolution.

For years, Apple’s iPhone lineup has seen only minor tweaks. The mini was replaced by the Plus, but overall design and product categorization have remained familiar.

However, this rumored three-year roadmap signals the end of the “small changes, slight upgrades” era.

With the introduction of all-new models like the iPhone 17 Air, the first foldable iPhone, and ultimately a fully bezel-less iPhone, Apple appears to be doubling down on innovation to reignite global consumer excitement and restore momentum for the iPhone line.

Hai Phong (9to5mac, AppleInsider)