Apple has a stringent product launch cycle with a single annual launch event for new iPhones, except for a stray affordable iPhone launch at the beginning of the year. However, it seems that the trillion-dollar company is set to change its ways in the coming year. According to the noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple will launch new iPhones twice a year starting in 2026. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest development.
Apple to Adopt Bi-Annual iPhone Release Cycle
Kuo predicts that several factors influence the switch to a bi-annual iPhone release schedule. One significant factor is stiff competition from brands like OnePlus and Samsung, which are known for launching their flagships and new devices in the first half of the year. With a new iPhone release scheduled in the first half, Apple will be able to fend off the competition.
Secondly, the brand has expanded its product lineup with the new “e” and flagship series. According to Kuo, launching all iPhones in the Fall will likely weaken the marketing effectiveness. The analyst states that the Pro models steal the show at the fall event, which takes the limelight away from the more affordable models.
Kuo also shared his iPhone launch prediction for the second half of 2025 to the second half of 2027. According to the report, Apple will launch the iPhone 17 series, including the iPhone 17 Slim (replacing the Plus variant), in the second half of 2025, followed by the iPhone 17e in the first half of 2026.
The brand will reportedly launch the iPhone Foldable, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone 18 Slim in the second half of 2026. The vanilla iPhone 18 will launch alongside the iPhone 18e in the first half 2027. In the second half of 2027, the company will launch the iPhone Foldable 2nd-generation, iPhone 19 Pro series, and iPhone 19 Slim.
