Apple might skip the standard iPhone 18 and release a foldable phone instead, says rumor
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Apple may be planning one of its biggest changes to the iPhone lineup in years. According to a new report, the company might not release a standard version of the iPhone 18 in 2026. Instead, Apple could focus on launching a foldable iPhone, which would be its first ever. There have long been rumors of a foldable iPhone, and while Apple has yet to mention it in any official capacity, a couple of executives sheepishly said “Who’s to say?” when quizzed on its development a couple of months ago.
Big changes incoming for iPhone?
In 2025, Apple is expected to release the iPhone 17 series, and we already know some changes are coming. The current Plus model will be replaced with a slimmer and more stylish version called the iPhone 17 Air. But the real surprise comes in the 2026 iPhone lineup, as sources now suggest that Apple won’t include a base model iPhone 18 next year.
Instead, sources say the company plans to release four models: iPhone 18 Air, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the first-ever foldable iPhone. This means Apple could be skipping the standard iPhone 18 in 2026, instead launching it at a later date.
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According to Korean outlet ETNews, Apple wants to change how and when it releases iPhones. The company is likely to release entry-level models like the iPhone 17e in spring 2026, followed by high-end models and the foldable iPhone in the fall. The standard iPhone 18 is now expected to arrive in early 2027, not with the main lineup. This new timing could help Apple spread out sales across the year instead of just focusing on the fall.
About time Apple released a foldable iPhone
Apple entering the foldable phone market is a big deal. Other brands like Samsung, Google, Huawei, and Motorola have already been doing this for years. Most recently, Samsung released its Flip 7 & Fold 7 smartphones, while Google is about to launch its new Pixel 10 series, which will more than likely include the Pixel 10 Fold.
So far, we don’t know much about Apple’s foldable phone. No official specs or designs have been revealed, but rumors say it could launch as part of the iPhone 18 family in late 2026. It’s likely to be a high-end device, possibly even more expensive than the Pro Max, with rumors suggesting that the phone might use Samsung’s ‘crease-free’ display.
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