The iPhone 17 collection brings forth a variety of enhancements and advancements, alongside the introduction of a new iPhone range, the iPhone Air. The 17 series showcases upgraded cameras, a fresh design, and superior processing; however, not everyone is persuaded by the 2025 models. What’s on the horizon? The iPhone 18 series.
Numerous speculations are already circulating regarding the 2026 iPhones, predominantly concerning the iPhone 18 series. Some of these speculations have been around for years, while others are more recent, all hinting at a noteworthy year for the iPhone.
Is it better to hold out for the iPhone 18 series instead of purchasing an iPhone 17 or iPhone Air? Here’s what we have discovered about the iPhone 18 thus far.
**More new iPhone models are set to arrive soon**
The most significant alteration in the iPhone 17 lineup is the introduction of a device lacking the 17 label: the iPhone Air, created for users who prioritize slimness over extended battery life and multiple cameras. Apple has also removed the “Plus” variant.
Speculations indicate that Apple may implement even more substantial changes in 2026. The company is expected to unveil a refreshed iPhone Air, potentially dubbed the iPhone Air 2, and is indicating plans to launch its first foldable iPhone. The 2026 lineup may consist of:
– iPhone 18
– iPhone 18 Pro
– iPhone 18 Pro Max
– iPhone Air 2
– iPhone Fold / iPhone 18 Fold
The foldable iPhone is rumored to be extremely slim, with initial reports suggesting a thickness of 4.5 to 4.8 mm when opened. It might come with a 5.5-inch front display and a 7-inch internal display, accompanied by a steep price. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests it might exceed $2,000, surpassing the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.
Not all these devices may debut at the same time. Apple could announce the iPhone Fold in September and launch it in October. Some reports hint that Apple might push the base iPhone 18 to 2027, but this would be unexpected.
**Under-display Face ID**
Apple could remove the Dynamic Island or considerably shrink its size with new Face ID technology. Reports indicate Apple is working on under-display Face ID technology that operates similarly to the current Face ID but functions beneath the screen.
It remains uncertain if the entire Dynamic Island will be situated under the display or just the Face ID sensors, leaving a small opening for the front camera. Historically, under-display cameras have yielded poor-quality images, but companies like Apple are likely seeking to enhance this technology.
**The Apple A20 chip**
Apple is anticipated to unveil new chips for its upcoming iPhone models. The A20 series will be the successor to the A19, probably including a standard A20 chip and an A20 Pro chip.
Reports from analyst Jeff Pu indicate that the new chips will be manufactured using the same TSMC 3nm process as the A19 chips. Although performance gains might be minor, rumors hint that the chip will incorporate Chip on Wafer on Substrate (CoWoS) packaging for improved integration with memory, the neural engine, and other components, likely boosting on-device AI capabilities.
**Enhanced cameras**
Cameras have consistently been a focal point of new iPhone launches. The iPhone 18 series might bring notable improvements in camera technology. A leak from Apple leaker @Jukanlosreve suggests that the iPhone 18 series will incorporate a novel three-layer camera sensor from Samsung, enhancing responsiveness, dynamic range, and noise reduction.
This would mark a significant shift for Apple, given that Sony has traditionally supplied iPhone camera sensors. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo states the new sensor will be utilized for the ultrawide camera of the 2026 iPhone.
**To update, or not to update?**
The iPhone 18 series is expected to surpass the iPhone 17 series, as phone models generally evolve positively each year. But should you make the leap now or hold off?
The answer isn’t simple. If you require a new phone, upgrade at present. If you’re content with your iPhone 15 or 16 Pro or Pro Max, consider waiting a year. Don’t take rumors at face value. Speculations regarding a foldable iPhone have persisted for a long time, but Apple might delay its debut to 2027 or later.
If you’re uncertain but need a new phone immediately, you could purchase an upgrade and sell or trade in your device next year when the iPhone 18 series is announced. Year-old iPhones typically retain their value well, and you might only incur a loss of a few hundred dollars if you maintain your device in good condition.