Apple may drastically change the release schedule for new iPhones

Apple has traditionally kept a steady schedule of new full-size iPhone models – every September, the company announces fresh flagships. The only recent exception was 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic saw the iPhone 12 series unveiled in October. Otherwise, early fall for iPhone fans means it’s time to get your wallet ready and check your stash.

Apple will introduce four iPhone models each year from 2020, making only one change in 2022 – replacing the compact iPhone 13 mini with the larger iPhone 14 Plus. Another reshuffle is expected in 2024: the iPhone 16 Plus could be replaced by the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air. But the truly radical changes could begin in 2026.

According to The Information, citing three anonymous sources in Apple’s supply chain, the company plans to split the iPhone announcement into two events: one in the fall and one in the spring. In 2026, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will be unveiled first, while the base iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Air models may not be revealed until spring 2027.

According to The Information, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Air may not be unveiled until spring 2027.

Also among the possible new products is the long-awaited foldable iPhone Fold, which, according to rumors, could be part of the fall 2026 event. If Apple continues to develop a lineup of budget models like the iPhone 16e, the iPhone 18e could also debut in the spring of 2027.

If Apple does move to such a format, it could change the approach of competitors who traditionally try not to overlap with iPhone releases. The production schedules of contract assemblers, as well as component suppliers, will be forced to adapt to a more even distribution of order volumes over the course of the year.

And if Apple does move to this format, it could change the approach of competitors who have traditionally tried to avoid overlapping iPhone releases.

Now iPhone production slows sharply at the beginning of each year after the fall peak. The new strategy could make factory utilization more consistent year-round.

This is only a rumor for now, and if Apple decides to take this step, it’ll be interesting to see exactly how it presents this transition to audiences.

The Apple may drastically change the release schedule for new iPhones was first published on ITZine.ru.