A major shake-up in Apple’s iPhone strategy may be on the horizon. For years, the iPhone launch has been a predictable event: a single, massive reveal every fall with a few new models. But with the rumored arrival of a foldable iPhone, the company is preparing to completely reorganize its product lineup and release schedule. According to recent reports, Apple will not launch of a base iPhone 18 in 2026. However, the small “vanilla” model will not die forever.
As reported by the Korean outlet ET News, this restructuring will begin next year. The source suggests that in 2026, Apple will only release a budget-friendly iPhone 17e in the first half of the year. Then, the fall 2026 lineup would then consist of four premium models: the iPhone 18 Air, 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and the highly anticipated foldable iPhone.
In other words, Apple would not release a base iPhone 18 in 2026.
No iPhone 18 launch in 2026, but “base” iPhone will return in 2027
After that, starting in 2027 onward, the lineup would stabilize into a six-model annual release. Apple would launch both the “e” model and the “regular” iPhone in the first half of the year. Meanwhile, the rest of the premium and foldable models will arrive in the second half (via Jukanlosreve).
This shift would be a significant departure from the company’s traditional approach. Sources indicate that the potential move is aimed at boosting sales and keeping consumer interest high year-round.
This new strategy is a direct response to a slowdown in smartphone demand. While Apple remains a giant in the market, recent data shows a slight dip in its iPhone shipments. By spreading out its key product launches, the company hopes to create a more consistent “new product effect” throughout the year, rather than just in the fall.
Apple will get rid of the iPhone Plus this year
This isn’t the only tweak planned by Apple for its iPhone lineup. This year, the firm is replacing the underperforming “Plus” model with a thinner “Air.” The company also reintroduced a “budget” iPhone this spring for the first time in three years, changing its naming convention to “16e.” The new “e” suffix was likely a way to “match the numbering” with the regular models for future joint releases.
Industry watchers are paying close attention to these changes. The question remains whether this major reorganization and split release schedule will be the key to reviving stagnating smartphone demand and reigniting consumer excitement. Will the strategy work? Only time will tell.
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Source: ndroidheadlines.com