After a lengthy period where the iPhone series appeared quite similar each year, Apple has revitalized its offerings this autumn by substituting the Plus model with the iPhone Air. However, it seems that the iPhone 18 lineup for next year could represent a significant change for the company.
## Consequences of the rumored iPhone Air 2 postponement
In recent days, *The Information* has published two reports regarding Apple’s work on the iPhone Air 2.
At first, the outlet claimed that the new iteration had been delayed indefinitely because of disappointing sales of the original iPhone Air. Yet a follow-up report just hours later revealed that Apple aims to launch the successor by spring 2027—not too far off from the initial fall 2026 launch schedule.
The delay, according to the report, is attributed to Apple wanting to incorporate a second rear camera into the device.
Before this schedule change, several sources had indicated that Apple was planning a fall 2026 lineup featuring the iPhone Air 2, iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, and iPhone Fold.
A total of four models were expected, but there was no standard model iPhone 18. Instead, Apple is said to be moving it to early 2027.
However, in light of the iPhone Air 2 delay, this action might lead Apple to present its most unusual fall iPhone lineup in years.
## Apple’s fall iPhone 18 series may be quite distinctive
When I first came across the news about the iPhone Air 2 being excluded from the fall lineup, my immediate question pertained to the base model iPhone 18.
I presume that Apple will wish to retract its plans to shift the base iPhone 18 to the spring. It’s uncertain how much notice is required for such a transition, but if feasible, I suspect they will pursue it.
Nevertheless, *The Information’s* reports suggest that the base iPhone 18 will still debut in spring 2027.
If this is accurate, Apple’s fall 2026 iPhone lineup will feature only three models:
– iPhone 18 Pro
– iPhone 18 Pro Max
– iPhone Fold
This would create an unusual lineup for several reasons.
To begin with, it comprises only three models instead of the four Apple has introduced every fall for many years.
It also indicates that the ‘entry’ option would be the $1,099 iPhone 18 Pro—a significant leap from the $799 entry price typically seen each fall.
Finally, the brand new and ultra-premium iPhone Fold would be among the three models. It’s not anticipated to achieve widespread appeal, at least initially. This means only two new iPhone models would be reliable options.
All of this collectively leads to what I would easily consider the strangest flagship iPhone line I can recall. It poses a considerable challenge for the company’s financial results, given the difficulty in matching iPhone sales from fall 2025.
This leads me to believe that it won’t be long before we hear a report regarding the base iPhone 18 being incorporated into the fall 2026 lineup after all.
If this occurs, next fall will largely resume the usual routine for Apple. However, if not, I’m eager to see how Apple intends to market its trimmed-down, ultra-premium iPhone lineup to consumers.
Do you think Apple is genuinely going to release just three iPhone models next fall, with no base or Air? Share your thoughts in the comments.
