In the past, Apple’s mid-range iPhones  -  previously labeled SE  -  had unpredictable release schedules. There was a four-year gap between the first SE and the 2020 version. The SE 2022 was launched merely to bring 5G connectivity to budget users, and then came another three-year wait for the iPhone 16e.

Now, rumors suggest users won’t have to wait as long for the next E-series device. Many expect the iPhone 17e to debut in 2026, with some sources even pointing to May.

Traditionally, this would be considered a late launch. The iPhone 16e arrived in February, while SE models typically land in March or April. But Apple clearly doesn’t follow a strict pattern with its budget models.

Feature-wise, the iPhone 17e is likely to inherit many of the technologies introduced with the iPhone 17. The only question is which features will make the cut for the E version, and which will remain exclusive to the flagship line.

Predictions suggest the iPhone 17e could include the A19 chip, the second-generation Ceramic Shield, and a Dynamic Island display instead of the dated notch design. However, it remains unclear whether it will also sport a 6.3-inch screen and a 120Hz refresh rate like the iPhone 17.

iPhone 18 and the fall 2026 product lineup

When it comes to the iPhone 18, Apple’s traditional September launch window makes predictions easier. Most years, the company hosts its annual fall event around the second week of September, unveiling new flagship devices.

If the trend holds, the iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a new version of the iPhone Air could arrive during the week starting September 7, 2026. However, this date coincides with the U.S. Labor Day holiday, which might impact scheduling.

But Apple may be shaking things up. According to sources including The Information, the company could begin a new release strategy starting with the iPhone 18 series.

Instead of unveiling all versions at once, Apple may introduce only the high-end models in fall 2026  -  specifically the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and one “mystery” device  -  followed by the standard iPhone 18, the next iPhone Air, and the iPhone 18e in spring 2027.

The rationale? Apple might be aiming to spread iPhone hype throughout the year, potentially boosting overall sales. However, some experts remain skeptical, noting that consumers are used to seeing flagship iPhones debut each fall.

As for features, there’s not much concrete information yet, except that under-display Face ID may not be ready in time for the iPhone 18. Other reports suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro might not look dramatically different from the iPhone 17 Pro.

Finally: the foldable iPhone

That mysterious third device expected in fall 2026? It’s likely to be Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone  -  tentatively dubbed the iPhone Fold.

While Samsung is already on the seventh generation of its Galaxy Z Fold line, and competitors like Google, OnePlus, and Motorola have entered the foldable race, Apple has yet to release a single folding phone. Meanwhile, Chinese brands continue to experiment with a wide variety of form factors.

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s foldable phone could resemble the Galaxy Z Fold in design. However, Apple is reportedly focused on solving one of the format’s biggest issues: the visible crease in the middle of the screen. Rumors suggest the company may have found a solution to significantly reduce or eliminate this flaw.

The newly launched iPhone Air is seen as a stepping stone toward the foldable model, demonstrating that Apple can build a lightweight yet powerful device. With the success of the iPhone Air, analysts believe 2026 will be the “golden moment” for Apple to finally introduce its first foldable phone  -  possibly alongside the iPhone 18 Pro or the full next-gen lineup.

These speculations will undoubtedly influence today’s purchasing decisions. If you’re looking to save money and are willing to wait, the iPhone 17e  -  expected in early 2026  -  might be your best bet for a budget-friendly upgrade. But if you're dreaming of a foldable iPhone, now might be the time to start saving, as it's expected to surpass even the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s $1,199 price tag.

Still, many experts advise buying a new phone when you truly need one  -  as long as your current device meets your needs. The iPhone 17 remains a powerful and worthy option today. But if the rumors are true, Apple’s 2026 lineup could ignite another smartphone revolution.

Hai Phong