The iPhone 17 series and the new iPhone Air introduced major improvements in design, performance, and camera technology. Yet, not everyone has been fully persuaded.

After 2025, attention has quickly shifted toward the iPhone 18, expected to mark a significant turning point for Apple.

The foldable iPhone: Apple’s mystery project for 2026

In the iPhone 17 lineup, the standout change was the debut of the ultra-thin iPhone Air, designed for those who value lightweight elegance over battery endurance or multiple lenses. Apple also dropped the “Plus” version, signaling a major restructuring of its product portfolio.

But the changes coming in 2026 could be even bigger.

According to multiple sources, Apple is set to release the second-generation iPhone Air - and, more importantly, its first foldable iPhone in history.

If Apple’s timeline holds, the 2026 lineup may include the iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone Air 2, and the iPhone Fold (possibly branded iPhone 18 Fold).

The foldable iPhone is rumored to feature an ultra-thin design, measuring just 4.5–4.8mm when unfolded, with an outer screen around 5.5 inches and an inner display about 7 inches.

However, it won’t come cheap.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts it could exceed $2,000, making it even more expensive than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7.

According to Mashable, Apple may unveil the device in September but delay its release, a strategy it has used for previous products.

There are also rumors that Apple might postpone the standard iPhone 18 to 2027, though this remains unlikely for now.

Expected upgrades

One of the most anticipated changes is the possible replacement of the Dynamic Island with under-display Face ID technology.

The Information reports that Apple is developing a fully functional facial recognition system beneath the display, eliminating the current notch.

It remains unclear whether Apple will also hide the selfie camera under the screen or just the Face ID sensors.

Under-display cameras have long struggled with image quality, but Apple is expected to overcome this before commercialization.

As usual, the iPhone 18 will likely debut with Apple’s new A20 chip, built on TSMC’s 2nm process.

This chip - available in standard and Pro variants - promises a major performance boost, supported by advanced CoWoS (Chip on Wafer on Substrate) packaging for tighter integration with memory, Neural Engine, and processing units.

The result will be significantly enhanced on-device AI capabilities, a key area where Apple is intensifying investment.

Camera improvements will also play a central role.

According to leaker @Jukanlosreve, Apple plans to use Samsung’s new triple-layer sensor to improve response speed, expand dynamic range, and reduce image noise.

If true, this marks a historic shift, as Sony has long been Apple’s exclusive sensor supplier.

Ming-Chi Kuo added that this sensor may power the ultra-wide camera in Apple’s 2026 models, promising better low-light performance.

Should you wait or buy now?

Naturally, the iPhone 18 is expected to outperform the iPhone 17 - just as Apple’s updates do each year.

But the bigger question is: should you wait?

It depends on your needs. If you truly need a new phone, there’s no reason to delay.

The iPhone 17 is already powerful and advanced.

If you’re using an iPhone 15 or 16 Pro/Pro Max and are satisfied, it may be worth waiting another year to see what Apple unveils.

However, consumers shouldn’t believe every rumor.

The foldable iPhone has been discussed for years, and Apple could still delay it until 2027 - or later.

For those unsure but needing an upgrade now, one practical option is to buy the iPhone 17 and trade it in when the iPhone 18 launches.

Apple devices typically retain their value well, so with careful use, upgrading might only cost a few hundred dollars.

The iPhone 18 is shaping up to be a major milestone - with under-display Face ID, the AI-driven A20 chip, Samsung camera sensors, and Apple’s first foldable phone.

But between expectations and reality lies a wide gap.

So, make your decision based on what you need today, not on uncertain promises for tomorrow.

Hai Phong