Apple Unveils Plans for iPhone Air, Fold, and Expanded Lineup
Apple is said to be preparing for one of its most significant transformations for the iPhone line-up as it nears the product’s 20th anniversary in 2027. A report indicates that the company plans to implement “three straight years of major iPhone redesigns,” starting this year with the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, followed by its inaugural foldable iPhone in 2026, and a 20th anniversary special all-glass iPhone in 2027.
The report indicates that Apple is developing a broader array of hardware, which encompasses faster Vision Pro headsets, display-less smart glasses, and a HomePod featuring a built-in screen, in addition to experimental devices such as a tabletop robot and a foldable iPad-Mac hybrid. Apple’s overhaul is anticipated to commence with the iPhone 17 series, which is likely to launch next month. The Cupertino-based technology giant is expected to unveil a new sleek iPhone 17 Air model, which will take the place of the Plus model from this year’s iPhone lineup. Apple’s iPhone 17 Air is expected to be the slimmest iPhone ever, featuring a body that measures a mere 5.5mm, surpassing the 6.9mm thickness of the iPhone 6, which currently holds the record. However, to attain this form factor, Apple may need to implement certain hardware modifications. This may involve a notably reduced battery size, a singular rear camera configuration, and a lack of support for physical SIM cards. The device is expected to include Apple’s proprietary C1 modem, which was first unveiled with the iPhone 16e.
The remaining lineup is anticipated to feature the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. These models may feature cosmetic enhancements, such as a hybrid aluminium-glass construction on the Pro variants and a reimagined camera bar. Additional enhancements could feature ProMotion 120Hz displays on the standard iPhone 17 and improved telephoto lenses on the Pro models. In 2026, Apple is anticipated to reveal its inaugural foldable iPhone, which is internally referred to as V68. The device is said to adopt a book-style design akin to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold line. Reports says that it could include a total of four cameras – two front-facing cameras (one for each screen) and a dual rear configuration. The report indicated that the smartphone will utilize Touch ID rather than FaceID for biometric authentication and will not feature a physical SIM card slot, similar to the iPhone 17 Air. The foldable may come equipped with Apple’s second-generation in-house C2 modem chip, substituting Qualcomm’s solutions. Earlier reports indicated a 7.8-inch internal display alongside a 5.5-inch cover screen. The anticipated thickness is projected to be between 9mm and 9.5mm when folded, and between 4.5mm and 4.8mm when unfolded, making it slightly thicker than Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z Fold 7.
A key highlight is anticipated to be a crease-free foldable display, facilitated by a “in-cell touch screen” technology that minimizes visible creases and enhances touch responsiveness. Meanwhile, the remainder of the iPhone 18 line-up is expected to carry forward the refreshed design language introduced with the iPhone 17 series and may also incorporate the C2 modem chip. In 2027, Apple will commemorate the iPhone’s 20th anniversary with the introduction of the “iPhone 20,” which is reported to showcase a predominantly glass design. This marks a significant initial move towards Apple’s enduring aspiration for iPhone hardware, which former design chief Jony Ive referred to as a “single slab of glass.” The device is said to showcase a predominantly glass design with curved edges throughout, representing a departure from the flat-sided design language of recent years. This strategy is in harmony with Apple’s recently unveiled “Liquid Glass” design aesthetic that debuted with iOS 26. The 20th anniversary iPhone might feature under-display Face ID and a front camera, advancing Apple’s vision of a fully all-glass iPhone. In addition to iPhones, reports reveals that Apple has an extensive hardware roadmap ahead. This year may see the introduction of updated Apple Watch models, enhanced Vision Pro headsets, and iPad Pro units equipped with the M5 chip. Reports indicate that updates to the HomePod mini and Apple TV are also in development. New AirPods Pro might also feature health-focused sensors, including heart-rate monitoring.
In 2026, Apple is said to be gearing up for the release of the iPhone 17e, alongside new base iPads, an updated iPad Air, and refreshed MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models featuring the M5 chip. Significant Mac accessories are also in development, including a new external display. Apple is expected to unveil its much-anticipated HomePod featuring a screen next year, designed to function as a central hub for all smart home devices. Other projects that Apple may be currently working on include display-less smart glasses, a lighter Vision headset, AirPods with built-in cameras, a tabletop robot, and a larger foldable device that could serve as both an iPad and a Mac.
