A report suggests the iPhone Fold may be delayed, and Apple might have a different launch plan for the iPhone 18.
Just because the iPhone 17 family is still only a few weeks young, that doesn't mean we can't talk about Apple's product release plans for 2026, 2027, and 2028.
It's been speculated that Apple has been working on a competitor to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold for several years. Samsung's initial foldable phone was released in 2019, with an improved version in 2020, which prompted more serious consideration of this new category.
Despite the time that has passed, Apple is still focused on perfecting its "iPhone Fold," specifically its hinge durability and minimizing the display crease.
This focus on improvement could delay the release until 2027. Even if the device meets its internal deadline, initial production may be limited to five to seven million units in the first year.
A limited launch in 2026, followed by a quick sell-out, might be less desirable than a full launch in 2027, especially considering the expected price of over $2,000.
One idea is that Apple might divide the iPhone 18 release, launching the Pro, Pro Max, and Air models in 2026, and then the standard iPhone 18 and a new "iPhone 18e" in spring 2027.
This seems unusual, considering the success of the standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 16. The non-Pro iPhone 17 is also projected to be very popular and outperform its predecessor.
Overall demand for the iPhone 17 series is expected to exceed both Apple's forecasts and the iPhone 16's performance, while the iPhone Air is reportedly underperforming.
Apple's iPhone sales in 2025 are anticipated to be similar to 2024, decrease in 2026, and then increase in 2027 to levels not seen since 2015. These predictions could change depending on the release of the first iPhone Fold and the iPhone 18.
It may be best for Apple to maintain its current release strategy for the iPhone 18 in September 2026. If the iPhone Fold is ready, its addition would increase competition with Samsung's Galaxy S26 series, Z Fold 8, and Z Flip 8.
Competition from Apple could help the current foldable market. Perhaps Apple should accelerate its foldable iPhone development to release it before the Galaxy Z Fold 8, rather than delaying the standard iPhone 18 to avoid a crowded fall 2026 launch.
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