A detailed leak from The Information on December 16, 2025, has revealed Apple's aggressive plans to revitalize its iPhone lineup over the next two years, potentially growing from five current models to seven by fall 2027.
This expansion includes the company's long-rumored first foldable iPhone in 2026 and a radical 20th-anniversary edition in 2027 featuring curved glass and an all-screen design. Amid slowing iPhone sales growth - up just 4% year-over-year in fiscal 2025 - these innovations aim to spark renewed consumer excitement and counter competition from foldable leaders like Samsung.
The Foldable iPhone: A Horizontal Twist Arriving in 2026
Apple's entry into the foldable market, codenamed V68, is slated for fall 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. Unlike Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold or Google's Pixel Fold, which open vertically, Apple's device adopts a horizontal "book-style" fold, resulting in a wider-than-tall unfolded form reminiscent of a mini iPad.
The outer display measures about 5.3 inches, while the inner screen expands to 7.7 inches.
To prioritize this project, Apple reportedly delayed a planned foldable iPad and reassigned engineers. Trial production at Foxconn's facilities faces high defect rates in displays - a common early-stage issue for foldables - but suppliers like Corning and Germany's Schott (who also serve Samsung) are providing advanced materials.
Analysts estimate pricing around $2,000 – $2,400, positioning it as a premium offering with potential creaseless technology and liquid metal hinges for durability.
The 20th Anniversary iPhone: Curved Glass and True All-Screen Glory
Marking the iPhone's 20th anniversary in fall 2027, this commemorative model promises Apple's boldest redesign yet: curved glass wrapping all four edges, interrupted only by a narrow metal band for buttons.
The front-facing selfie camera will hide under the display, achieving a seamless, bezel-free front panel - echoing former design chief Jony Ive's vision of a "single slab of glass."
Internal skepticism exists, with some questioning appeal since many users cover devices in cases. Under-display Face ID is expected to debut earlier on the iPhone 18 Pro series in 2026, paving the way for this full integration.
Slim Ambitions: The Uncertain Future of iPhone Air
The ultra-thin iPhone Air (or "Slim") line faces adjustments. Development of a second-generation model paused, with Apple essentially restarting design efforts. A potential iPhone Air 2 is now eyed for spring 2027, possibly alongside base iPhone 18 models, but details remain scarce amid reports of modest sales for the initial Air.
Shifting Production: More Made in India
To diversify supply chains, Apple plans initial production of base iPhone 18 and 18e models at Foxconn's Bangalore facility before scaling in China. This aligns with broader efforts: Foxconn's Bengaluru plant, its second-largest outside China, already produces iPhone 17 units, with India contributing significantly to U.S.-bound devices.
Overall, this roadmap signals Apple's push for differentiation in a maturing smartphone market. With seven models spanning budget to ultra-premium foldables, staggered releases could sustain buzz year-round. Challenges like manufacturing yields and consumer adoption of cases remain, but if executed well, these devices could redefine the iPhone era ahead.
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Author: Slava Vasipenok
Founder and CEO of QUASA (quasa.io) - Daily insights on Web3, AI, Crypto, and Freelance. Stay updated on finance, technology trends, and creator tools - with sources and real value.
Innovative entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in IT, fintech, and blockchain. Specializes in decentralized solutions for freelancing, helping to overcome the barriers of traditional finance, especially in developing regions.
