Apple's iPhone selection is anticipated to grow by two models, and as the business tends to sell millions of its smartphones while prioritizing quality over quantity, it will need to make some concessions in 2026. The most recent story is that the standard iPhone 18 will be phased out. This could mean that users would need to budget more for an upgrade next year, but the tech giant is making a big splash by launching two new models in its stead.
The iPhone 17e will be the first of five iPhone models to join Apple's lineup in 2026.
Later this year, the iPhone 17 Air will essentially replace the "Plus" model, therefore Apple is preparing to make yet another adjustment to its 2026 rollout schedule. The base model of the iPhone 18 will no longer be available in the series, according to ETNews. This may lead you to believe that Apple will only be releasing three flagships instead of the four it has been announcing for years. You are overlooking the fact that the foldable iPhone will be included in the lineup. Those who choose to make the latter their daily driver will likely have to shell out a substantial amount of money, as the device is anticipated to retail for between $2,000 and $2,500.
The iPhone 17e, the direct successor to the iPhone 16e, will be unveiled by Apple prior to the introduction in late 2026. It will have excellent specifications at a somewhat "lower than premium" price point. Though it is impossible to predict whether it will provide the same value as the base iPhone 18, Apple does not want its smartphone lineup to look crowded because, while the California-based behemoth may still see a significant increase in sales, one or two models will undoubtedly suffer from a "lack of popularity" casualty.
Additionally, Apple would not vary from Samsung, which supplies a vast number of devices to help it achieve its unparalleled smartphone shipping total at the end of the year, if the company offered an excessive number of iPhone models in a single calendar year. In summary, according to the most recent report, the iPhone 17e will be released next year, followed by the iPhone 18 Air, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and finally the foldable iPhone.
