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Apple May Skip iPhone 18 in 2026 to Launch First Foldable iPhone: Report

Highlights

Apple may skip the standard iPhone 18 in 2026, launching its first foldable iPhone instead.
iPhone 18 lineup will be staggered with iPhone 18 Air, Pro and Pro Max arriving in September 2026, while the base iPhone 18 and 18e are delayed to early 2027.
iPhone 17 series features the ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air and budget-friendly iPhone 17e with Dynamic Island and 3D Face Recognition.

Apple expected to launch affordable iPhone 17e in the first half of 2026. (Image credit – Apple)

Apple typically unveils its next-generation iPhones every September, but the iPhone 17 series is reportedly scheduled to launch earlier than usual. In the meantime, a new report suggests a major shake-up in Apple’s roadmap for 2026. According to the Korean publication ETNews, Apple may skip the standard iPhone 18 next year and instead debut its first foldable iPhone. Here’s what we know.

iPhone 18 Series Launch Plans

The Korean report claims Apple plans to shift its focus to foldables while still bringing five new models under the iPhone 18 lineup, though some will launch later. Apple is expected to introduce the affordable iPhone 17e in the first half of 2026, followed by a premium lineup in the second half.

As per the report, Apple will unveil the iPhone 18 Air, iPhone 18 Pro, and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September 2026, alongside the foldable iPhone. The standard iPhone 18 and budget-friendly iPhone 18e will reportedly be delayed until early 2027.

Pricing details suggest that Apple’s first foldable iPhone could start at around $1,999 (approx. ₹1,75,000), directly competing with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, which launched last month at the same price.

Analysts believe this new strategy reflects Apple’s attempt to address slowing smartphone sales. While the company recently sold its 3 billionth iPhone, shipment numbers have shown a decline. By staggering launches across the year, Apple aims to maintain consumer attention and potentially boost sales.

For now, Apple is preparing for the iPhone 17 series launch next month. Reports suggest the company will drop the Plus model and instead introduce the iPhone 17 Air, its slimmest iPhone yet at just 5.5mm thick and weighing around 149 grams.

Leaks also hint at the arrival of the budget-friendly iPhone 17e expected in May 2026. The device will succeed the iPhone 16e released earlier this year in February. It is rumoured to feature the same 6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate as its predecessor but will include upgrades such as a Dynamic Island design and support for 3D Face Recognition.

FAQs

Q1. Will Apple launch the iPhone 18 series in 2026?

Answer. Yes, but with a twist. Apple is expected to release select iPhone 18 models, Air, Pro, and Pro Max, in September 2026, while the standard iPhone 18 and budget-friendly iPhone 18e may be delayed until early 2027.

Q2. Is Apple releasing a foldable iPhone?

Answer. Yes. According to reports, Apple plans to debut its first foldable iPhone in 2026, priced around $1,999, directly competing with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Q3. What’s new in the upcoming iPhone 17 series?

Answer. The iPhone 17 series will feature the ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air (just 5.5mm thick) and a budget iPhone 17e with upgrades like Dynamic Island and 3D Face Recognition, expected to launch in May 2026.