Apple seems ready to repeat history in 2027. According to recent reports, the company plans to skip the iPhone 19 altogether and jump straight to the iPhone 20, marking the 20th anniversary of the iPhone. This move mirrors what Apple did in 2017 when it launched the iPhone X, skipping the iPhone 9 to celebrate a decade of the iPhone lineup. The iPhone 20 is expected to bring a major redesign, even though the iPhone 17’s Liquid Glass design already introduced noticeable changes this year.
Sources suggest that the Liquid Glass aesthetic is just the beginning of Apple’s next big design era, which will be fully realized with the iPhone 20 lineup. Reports claim that the base iPhone 20 model could debut in early 2027, while the Pro, Pro Max, and possibly Fold models would launch later in the year.
This strategic shift could help Apple spread out its launches more efficiently—similar to Samsung and Google, which release devices across different months. Instead of launching five new models in the fall, Apple could focus on staggered releases, allowing more marketing attention for each device.
Interestingly, rumors also suggest that Apple might skip the base iPhone 18 next year. With the introduction of the iPhone Air this year and the iPhone Fold expected in 2026, Apple is reportedly restructuring its lineup. The fall 2026 lineup could feature the Air, Pro, and Fold models, while the base iPhone might take a back seat.
This potential move shows Apple’s shift toward innovation and smarter scheduling, aligning product launches with meaningful milestones and evolving consumer demand. The iPhone 20 could therefore mark not only an anniversary, but also a bold new era for Apple’s flagship smartphone.