A new report suggests Apple could release the iPhone 20 in 2027, leaving the fate of the iPhone 18 uncertain.
Apple seems more and more likely to revise its product launch strategy starting next year, although you might not like all the changes rumored today for 2026 and 2027.
Analysts increasingly anticipate a major naming change in a few years, possibly alongside significant internal improvements or a complete design overhaul.
While details are scarce, an Omdia researcher, as reported by ETNews in Korea, projects a rebranding by Apple in 2027.
The first iPhone 20 model is expected with a budget iPhone 18e in early 2027, followed by Air, Pro, and Pro Max versions, plus a second-generation iPhone Fold, later that year.
For this to occur, a first foldable iPhone must debut in 2026, and Apple needs to maintain its commitment to slim Air models, neither of which is guaranteed.
Recent reports on Apple's upcoming product releases suggest the base iPhone 18 might not arrive at its usual time.
If the iPhone 20 launches in the first half of 2027, the iPhone 18 and 19 may not be released. The iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Air 2 are still likely to arrive in fall 2026, possibly with a foldable iPhone to rival Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold.
A budget iPhone 17e may also appear next year, but this possibility was not mentioned in this report.
If Apple waits until 2027, skipping the iPhone 16e for the iPhone 18e, the second-gen iPhone Air could become more successful than its predecessor.
Should Apple skip the iPhone 19 name and release its 2027 phones as the iPhone 20 to celebrate the product line's 20th anniversary? Whether the phone's name is important is up for debate.
The possible cancellation of the regular iPhone 18 could be a mistake for Apple. The non-Pro iPhone 17 is arguably the company's best recent device, evident in its sales in the US and China. Without a successor, Apple's sales might decrease.
The non-Pro iPhone 20's appeal might be affected by launching alongside the iPhone 18e in spring 2027, potentially making them seem like lesser devices. Apple should reconsider this plan.
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