The year 2026 could bring a revolution in Apple's world - without the standard iPhone 18, but with powerful Pro models, a foldable iPhone and a bunch of tech goodies. Rumors point to a strategic delay that could shake up the smartphone market.
Apple, this eternal innovator who reliably launches every autumn new generation of iPhones, will suddenly hit the brakes this year, according to rumors. No, it's not about the apocalypse, but about rumors of to the iPhone 18, which spread faster than viral posts on TikTok. In 2026, when we'd expect a full lineup of new models, Apple might not release the standard iPhone 18. Instead, we're in for Pro variants, a foldable wonder, and perhaps even some irony in how the tech giant is playing with the timeline to keep our attention. Is this a brilliant marketing ploy or a sign that Cupertino is also facing challenges? Let's delve into these rumors, which are more intense than the final season of a Netflix series.
Why no standard iPhone 18 in 2026?
According to numerous reports from reliable sources such as MacRumors and Forbes, Apple is planning a radical change to its annual release cycle. The standard iPhone 18, the one most consumers buy without a second thought, is reportedly being pushed back to spring 2027. This would be the first time since 2007 that Apple has skipped an entire generation of the base model. Instead, it will be released in fall 2026. iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and the long-awaited foldable iPhone. Why? Perhaps to spread out revenue, capitalize on the hype around foldable devices, or simply because technological advancements no longer fit into the annual calendar. Ironically, while competitors like Samsung and Google are stepping on the gas, Apple may be playing for the long haul — and leaving us waiting like a missed train.
A big wave is expected to follow in 2027: standard iPhone 18 along with iPhone 18e and second generation iPhone AirRumors suggest the iPhone Air 2 will get a second camera and a larger battery, which sounds like Apple's way of saying, "Wait, it'll be worth it."
Back: The chameleon we've been waiting for
But now hold on to your hats, because the wildest, almost “Bond-esque” is coming. assumption, circulating in the corridors. Forget those giant camera protrusions that make your phone wobble on the table like a broken barstool. Apple is reportedly experimenting with the technology electrochromic glass with transparent screen across the entire back. The idea is both ingenious and completely ridiculous: when you're not using the cameras, they lenses completely invisible, hidden under black glass, which acts as a secondary screen for quick notifications, weather, or just for aesthetic digital signature. The moment you open the camera app, however, the glass becomes transparent and the lenses “see through”. This would mean a return to a completely flat, monolithic form factor, while also giving you the best “selfie” screen in the world – on the back. Is this absolutely necessary? Of course not. Is this something that will cost a fortune and look damn good? Absolutely.
Design and new features of Pro models
If the standard model is lagging behind, the Pro line won't complain about the lack of attention. Rumors about iPhone 18 Pro Max They're talking about a thicker body, a redesigned variable aperture camera (which may be exclusive to the Max variant), and DSLR-style controls. Imagine: professional photography without the need for a separate camera. Hidden under the screen Face ID technology, chip A20 on a 2nm process for insane speed, satellite internet and faster 5G – all of this sounds like science fiction, but it may be reality in 2026.
For basic iPhone 18, when it finally arrives, there's talk of a smaller camera bump compared to its predecessor. And the new colors? Red and purple are said to join the lineup, which might be the only reason some people upgrade — because, why not have a phone that looks like a fashion accessory?
Foldable iPhone: finally a reality?
The biggest boom in 2026 will be without a doubt iPhone 11, Apple's entry into the world of foldable phones. After years of rumors — since Samsung and others have been on the market for a long time — Apple is reportedly working on a device that folds like a book. Will it be a hit or just an expensive gadget for early adopters? Time will tell, but if Apple adds its own charm — seamless integration with the ecosystem, a premium display, and perhaps even support for the Apple Pencil — it could be a game-changer. Ironically, while other manufacturers are tackling display wrinkles, Apple is waiting to smooth them out to perfection.
iPhone 18 Pro | Coffee color
Concept#iPhone18Pro #iPhone18ProMax #iPhone18 #Apple pic.twitter.com/7daA6FTYWS
— Volodymyr 🇺🇦 (@ld_vova) January 6, 2026
What does this mean for consumers?
This shift in schedule could mean longer waits for more affordable models, but at the same time more time to enjoy iPhone 17For Apple, it's a risk that could smooth out revenue over the course of the year, rather than one big fall hit. And for us? Perhaps an opportunity to ask ourselves whether we really need a new device every year, or if it's just a marketing trap that we fall into like flies in a spider's web.
