Apple's iPhone 18 Roadmap: Foldable, Overhaul, and New Air Models

New details emerging from a leaked roadmap indicate Apple is planning a significant expansion of its iPhone lineup through 2028, featuring a foldable device, a major redesign for its Pro models, and an updated iPhone Air. The report, compiled by Mark Gurman, outlines over 10 new iPhone models expected to debut in the coming years, starting with the iPhone 18 series launching next week.

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, slated for a September 9 event, are rumored to boast a mechanical aperture camera feature, new color options including dark red and light blue, the A20 Pro chip, and a C2 modem. Alongside these, Apple is reportedly developing an 'iPhone Ultra' foldable device. This model is described as being roughly the size of a passport when folded, offering both light and dark color choices, Touch ID integration, and an advanced hinge mechanism, with a projected price point exceeding $2,000.

A Glimpse at Future Innovations

Looking ahead to 2027, Apple's strategy appears to shift, with the base iPhone 18 and an 'iPhone 18e' anticipated for a springtime release, diverging from the traditional fall launch for standard models. The iPhone Air 2 is also set to receive substantial upgrades, including a new Ultra Wide camera, a faster chip, and extended battery life. The iPhone Pro and Pro Max models are expected to receive a unique design treatment for their 20th anniversary, featuring curved glass on all corners and edges with significantly thinner bezels. Gurman described this potential redesign as "the biggest overhaul to what is now the iPhone Pro line since the iPhone X."

Furthermore, a second-generation foldable iPhone is reportedly deep in testing, with its primary enhancement being a new chip. This suggests Apple is refining its foldable technology and preparing for broader consumer adoption.

The roadmap extends into 2028 with plans for a larger foldable iPhone. This third-generation foldable is expected to feature slightly expanded displays, both on the front and internally, compared to its predecessors. While specific details for other 2028 models remain scarce, it is presumed that new base, Pro, and potentially other variants will be introduced, continuing the trend of consumers favoring larger screen sizes.

This comprehensive roadmap highlights Apple's ambitious plans to innovate across its entire iPhone portfolio. The introduction of a foldable iPhone, particularly one designed to be compact, addresses a growing market segment. Simultaneously, the planned overhaul for the Pro line signals a commitment to pushing design boundaries and enhancing user experience. The strategic repositioning of the base model and Air variants suggests an effort to diversify offerings and cater to different market needs and price points within the competitive smartphone landscape.