Apple may skip the iPhone 19 and go directly to the iPhone 20 in 2027
Apple’s upcoming iPhones may disrupt the usual launch schedule and naming conventions of the lineup. According to a new report from ETNews, Apple is considering skipping the “iPhone 19” generation to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the iPhone with an iPhone 20 in 2027.
An iPhone 20 to Celebrate 20 Years of the iPhone
This hypothesis, shared by an analyst from Omdia, anticipates a complete rebranding to mark the twentieth anniversary of the brand. Apple is reportedly planning not just a simple name change but also a significant internal overhaul and possibly a radical new design.
The first model in this lineup, the iPhone 20, is expected to arrive in the first half of 2027, followed by four additional models in the second half: iPhone 20 Air, iPhone 20 Pro, iPhone 20 Pro Max, and a second-generation iPhone Fold.
An iPhone 18 Without a “Classic” Version in 2026
Before that, Apple is set to launch an atypical iPhone 18 range in 2026 — without a “standard” model. Only the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Air 2 are anticipated, while the first generation of iPhone Fold might finally debut to compete with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold.
This decision would mark a strategic shift, as the standard version of the iPhone — often the most popular — would be completely put aside for a year.
The Risky Bet of Not Having a “Base” iPhone
Many analysts view this choice as a strategic mistake. The standard iPhone 17 is currently considered the most balanced and best-selling model from Apple, particularly in the United States and China. Removing it from the lineup could weaken overall sales, especially if the successors (Air or Pro) target a more premium market.
In 2027, the “base” iPhone 20 may also suffer from a delayed spring launch, alongside a potential entry-level iPhone 18, which could blur the hierarchy within the lineup.
Skipping the iPhone 19: A Symbolic Yet Questionable Idea
Skipping the number 19 to align the name “iPhone 20” with the twentieth anniversary makes obvious marketing sense. However, beyond the symbolism, analysts are particularly concerned about the absence of the most affordable model, which could create a gap in the lineup and impact the popularity of non-Pro iPhones.
Apple could disrupt its schedule with an iPhone 18 range without a standard model in 2026, followed by a leap to the iPhone 20 to mark history in 2027. It remains to be seen if this ambitious — and risky — strategy will appeal to fans or ultimately confuse the brand’s loyal followers.
