Folded leaves, staggered drops and a completely new strategy

Apple could break its iPhone routine to a large extent. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says that the company divided the flagship into two annual start windows-in 2026.

This means that Pro models and a new wrinkle for autumn 2026 are set, while the standard -iPhone 18 and an updated iPhone 18e slide in spring 2027.

Here is the rollout when Kuo plays it:

• 2H 2025: iPhone 17 Pro Max, Pro, Slim (possibly called Air) and base 17

• 1h 2026: iPhone 17E

• 2h 2026: Foldable iPhone, iPhone 18 Pro Max, Pro and Slim

• 1h 2027: iPhone 18, iPhone 18e

• 2h 2027: Foldable 2, iPhone 19 Pro Max, Pro and a larger display slim

According to Kuo, this new cadence is Apple's reaction to a few large layers.

First, the Chinese competitors attracted flagships at the beginning of the year.

Second, the distribution of publications, if the iPhone family continues to grow, could help to ensure that the marketing team is too thin.

And it follows with what The information Recently reported: Apple's destination for a big autumn 2026 splash with the pro and foldable line -up and then circle for the standard models in spring 2027.

The move would also make life in the Apple supply chain a little easier because it makes six models instead of five juggles.

If this timeline holds it, it will mark the first major change in the iPhone starthythm of Apple since 4S -era in 2011.