According to The Information, Apple is reportedly planning to adjust its iPhone release schedule in 2026 to accommodate a foldable model. As the tech giant prepares to launch a brand-new category of devices, some familiar models may arrive at different times than usual.
The foldable iPhone is expected to arrive alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, and a new model called the iPhone 18 Air. Meanwhile, the standard iPhone 18 might not show up until spring 2027, when it will be released together with an updated version of the iPhone 16E. This staggered schedule could help Apple manage its growing lineup, which may include up to six different models.
The company is adjusting its plans to avoid overwhelming production and simplify customer choices. With a foldable iPhone joining the lineup, Apple is working behind the scenes to ensure everything stays balanced.
The foldable iPhone may launch in 2026
If you’re excited about foldable phones, Apple’s upcoming model could be worth the wait. The foldable iPhone will likely follow a “book-style” design, opening like a small tablet. When folded, it is expected to have a 5.7-inch screen, but when opened, it will reveal a nearly 8-inch display — making it perfect for reading, watching videos, or browsing the web.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who often shares reliable information about Apple products, has suggested that the foldable device could be just 4.5 to 4.8 millimetres thick when opened. It’s also expected to include Face ID, Apple’s facial recognition system, rather than Touch ID. This will likely keep the experience consistent with other recent iPhones.
Apple’s shift to a foldable device is a major step for the Company, which has so far avoided jumping into the foldable phone trend led by competitors like Samsung. The company is known for taking its time with new categories, often entering the market only when it feels the product is ready and polished.
The new iPhone 17 Air could include an improved battery case
You may also see changes in other upcoming models. According to internal testing, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a new battery case. These tests have shown that the phone’s battery life may not last as long as it did in previous models.
The added battery case would give users an option to boost battery performance without waiting for software updates or future improvements. This might also be a sign that Apple is focused on keeping newer, slimmer models light and easy to carry—even if it means offering battery support separately.
Apple’s decisions around battery life and accessories often draw attention, and the battery case could become a key selling point for those who want a lightweight phone but still need power throughout the day.
Face ID may move under the display in iPhone 18 Pro models
Another major change could be coming to the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models. The Information reports that these versions will finally include under-display Face ID sensors — a feature that has been rumoured for years.
If you use Face ID regularly, you can still unlock your phone the same way, but the sensors will now be hidden under the screen. That means the front of the phone will look cleaner, with only a small hole in the top-left corner for the front-facing camera.
This change would bring Apple’s design closer to a full-screen look, which many users have hoped for. It’s another sign that Apple is pushing forward with advanced technology while keeping things simple and sleek on the outside.
As Apple moves towards more innovative devices, including the long-awaited foldable, you can expect other features to evolve too — from battery support to display changes — all while maintaining the familiar experience iPhone users have come to expect.
