The iPhone release schedule could undergo a major change – here’s what’s known

For years, Apple has stuck to its tradition of releasing its new iPhone models in September. The most recent release was the iPhone 16 series. However, according to a new report, that schedule could change in the coming years.

According to The Information (via MacRumors), Apple plans to maintain September launches for the Pro and Pro Max models, while the release of other iPhone models could be pushed back to spring in the U.S., presumably to March.

The idea is that splitting iPhone launches will help “revitalize long-stagnant sales,” according to the report. There is also some uncertainty about how well the expected ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air will sell.

And there is some uncertainty about how well the expected ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air will sell.

The Information notes that there are risks involved in changing an established schedule. Still, it could encourage consumers to update their devices more frequently and reduce the burden on Apple’s manufacturing partners.

Another reason for the schedule change is to prepare for the release of the foldable iPhone, which is expected in 2026. Moving less expensive models to an earlier launch date will free up production capacity for the new model.

Another reason for the change is to prepare for the foldable iPhone, which is expected in 2026.

Expectations and Competition

None of this has been confirmed yet, and we’ll have to wait to see what decisions Apple makes in the coming months. Perhaps the company itself hasn’t yet decided whether to mix release schedules in 2026 and 2027.

If Apple does decide to change its schedule, it would be a significant shift in the annual phone launch calendar. We’ve already seen Samsung and Google move their flagship smartphone launches earlier this year. Those moves are likely one of the reasons Apple is considering updating its approach to launching new devices.