Apple’s next three years could redefine its iPhone lineup, moving away from the incremental updates that have characterized recent launches. Rumors suggest the company is preparing to release a slimmer iPhone Air, a foldable model, and even a special 20th Anniversary edition — a series of bold moves that could dramatically reshape the iPhone family by 2027.
The first step in this plan may arrive as soon as next month, with Apple expected to debut the slimmed-down iPhone Air. Unlike the familiar pattern of minor design adjustments and specification bumps that have become standard at its launch events, this new model would represent a more radical change. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s three-year roadmap also integrates with its upcoming “Liquid Glass” design, which will be introduced alongside the next version of iOS.
Looking further ahead, 2026 is expected to bring the long-rumored foldable iPhone. Designed in a book-style format, it could mark Apple’s entry into a product category where rivals like Samsung have already established a foothold. Then, in 2027, Apple is reportedly planning something even more ambitious to commemorate the iPhone’s 20th anniversary: a device featuring curved glass that wraps around the entire body, paired with ultra-thin bezels — a design shift that could redefine how the iPhone looks and feels.
In the nearer term, this fall’s iPhone 17 lineup is not expected to feature dramatic design changes, aside from the introduction of a Pixel-like camera bar on the back. However, the addition of the iPhone Air could inject much-needed variety into the lineup. While early reports suggest the model might come with certain compromises — such as reduced battery life and a higher price tag — it could still appeal to users craving a fresh aesthetic after years of incremental updates.
If the rumors hold true, Apple’s roadmap represents a deliberate departure from routine. By introducing slimmer designs, foldable hardware, and anniversary innovations, Apple is signaling that the iPhone’s evolution is far from over — and that the next few years may prove to be some of its most transformative yet.
