Apple prepares new iPhone release schedule: models will be released twice a year

Apple may radically change its release strategy for new iPhones. If previously all models were released strictly in the fall, then from 2026 we may be waiting for a two-stage release schedule – in spring and fall. The new information confirms previous rumors and adds details about the future lineup.

What’s behind the change in strategy

The reason for the change is increased competition, especially in China. Manufacturers like Samsung, OnePlus and Xiaomi have consistently released new products in the first half of the year, garnering maximum attention well before Apple’s fall presentation. The new approach will allow Apple to keep interest in the iPhone year-round.

It’s also difficult for Apple to evenly cover all models in a single fall presentation. Media and audience attention goes primarily to the high-end Pro versions, while the base models, including the e-series and the notional iPhone Air, remain in the shadows.

And it’s difficult for Apple to evenly cover all models in a single fall presentation.

How it’s going to work: first wave in spring, second wave in fall

• Spring 2026iPhone 17e, a more affordable model that will come out faster than the usual SE cycle;
• Fall 2026iPhone 18 ProiPhone 18 Pro Max, the first foldable iPhone, and the conventional iPhone 18 Air or Slim
• Spring 2027iPhone 18iPhone 18e – traditional versions will be pushed back to the beginning of the year;
• Fall 2027second generation foldable iPhoneiPhone 19 Pro lineup, and again iPhone 19 Air or Slim-with a larger display.

So by 2027, Apple could move to a two-wave launch model that would allow for more frequent updates to the lineup, including affordable devices.

It’s still the same in 2025

Expect no change this year. In September 2025 the company will still introduce the iPhone 17 series, including the standard models, Pro and the new iPhone 17 Air, which is rumored to be ultra-thin but with shorter battery life. Apple is allegedly preparing an optional battery case for it.

What this means for the market and manufacturing

If Apple does move to a new release scheme, the implications could be massive:

• Competitors will start rearranging schedules to avoid clashing with the new iPhones;
• Component suppliers will get a more even workload throughout the year;
• Apple’s production lines will be able to run more consistently – without peaks and dips after the fall surge.

It’s also worth expecting that e-series and foldable iPhone could get an annual refresh -for the first time ever.

The article Apple prepares new iPhone release schedule: models will come out twice a year was first published on ITZine.ru.