Apple's next 'blockbuster' iPhones

The arrival of the iPhone 17 series in stores has closed the chain of Apple's 2025 iPhone launches. But the American technology company is certainly looking ahead to 2026. And perhaps users should do the same.

iPhone 17e will open the Apple flagship series in 2026. Photo: Future

If you’re considering a phone purchase this year, it’s always helpful to know what’s in store for you so you don’t end up with regrets when a new iPhone comes along with features you really want.

With the current picture, the technology world has made quite clear predictions about Apple's next plans after iPhone 17.

Next: iPhone 17e

Back when Apple used the iPhone SE name for its mid-range phones, it was hard to predict when a new version would be released. There was a four-year gap between the original iPhone SE and the 2020 version. The 2022 SE version was released just so Apple could bring 5G connectivity to users. After that, it took another three years for the iPhone 16e to be released.

However, current rumors suggest that users won’t have to wait long for the next E model. Most expect the iPhone 17e to launch in 2026, with some sources even predicting May.

Normally, that time is considered quite late, because the iPhone 16e launched in February, and the SE line usually appeared in March or April. But this also shows that Apple does not follow a fixed pattern for the mid-range iPhone line.

In terms of features, it is likely that the iPhone 17e will inherit many of the technologies that have just been launched on the iPhone 17. The question is just which technologies will be brought down and which technologies Apple will keep for the flagship line.

Many predictions say that the iPhone 17e will be equipped with the A19 chip, Ceramic Shield 2 shell and Dynamic Island design to replace the old "rabbit ears". However, whether the device will have a large 6.3-inch screen and 120Hz refresh rate like the iPhone 17 is still an open question.

iPhone 18 and fall 2026 product series

If based on tradition, predicting the iPhone 18 release schedule seems simple. Almost every year Apple holds an event in September, introducing a series of new flagships. At that time, users can expect the appearance of iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and the successor to the iPhone Air.

But it may not be business as usual. Some sources say Apple will change its launch strategy, starting with the iPhone 18.

According to The Information , Apple will likely launch the high-end models in the fall of 2026, which means the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and a “mystery” device (to be discussed later). Then, in the spring of 2027, Apple will introduce the regular iPhone 18, the iPhone Air successor, and the iPhone 18e.

The reason is said to be to stimulate sales, spreading the iPhone's appeal throughout the year. However, many experts are still skeptical, saying that users are too used to high-end iPhones appearing in the fall.

In terms of features, there is not much specific leaked news yet, except that Face ID under the screen will not appear on the iPhone 18. Some other reports also say that the iPhone 18 Pro will not change much in design compared to the iPhone 17 Pro.

Finally: Foldable iPhone

The “mysterious” device is most likely the iPhone Fold - a long-rumored foldable screen phone model.

While Samsung has already moved on to the seventh generation of its Galaxy Z Fold, Apple has yet to release one. Other competitors like Google, OnePlus, Motorola also have foldable devices, not to mention a slew of Chinese brands that are constantly experimenting with new form factors.

Watch the foldable iPhone concept video . (Source: bob obba)

According to Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman , the iPhone Fold may have a design similar to the Galaxy Z Fold, but Apple is focusing on solving the biggest problem: the crease in the middle of the screen. Many rumors say that Apple has found a solution to minimize this weakness.

The newly launched iPhone Air is seen as a stepping stone for the iPhone Fold, proving that Apple can produce a thin, light, yet powerful device. With the positive signals from the iPhone Air, observers believe that 2026 will be the "golden time" for Apple to announce the first foldable iPhone, possibly at the same time as the iPhone 18 Pro or a whole series of new products.

These rumored plans will certainly influence many people’s current iPhone buying decisions. If you want to save money and wait for a mid-range iPhone, the iPhone 17e in the first half of 2026 may be worth waiting for. But if you’re looking forward to a foldable iPhone, it’s time to start saving money, as this device is expected to be even more expensive than the $1,199 iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Still, many experts recommend buying a phone when you really need it, as long as your current device is good enough for your needs. The current iPhone 17 is still a strong and worthy choice. But if the rumors are true, what Apple has in store for 2026 could cause the smartphone market to explode once again.

(According to Appleinsider, Tom's Guide)

Vietnamnet.vn

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/nhung-iphone-bom-tan-tiep-theo-cua-apple-2446134.html