Three iPhones Instead Of Four In 2026? Here’s Why IDC Says It Might Happen

Apple is said to be planning a tighter iPhone lineup for 2026, moving away from the pattern it has followed for the past several years. According to a new data and projections from IDC, the tech giant could launch only three iPhone models next fall instead of the usual four. The shift is reportedly linked to delays in the development of the next standard iPhone and the successor to the recently introduced iPhone Air model. Also Read: Samsung Beats Apple! World’s First 2nm Mobile Exynos 2600 Chip Is Here, Galaxy S26 Series Likely to Get It

Fewer iPhone Models Expected Next Year

IDC’s latest shipment forecast suggests iPhone shipments could decline by around 4 percent in 2026. Part of this is being attributed to component shortages, but the bigger reason appears to be Apple’s decision to push the next base iPhone model to early 2027. The move also affects the Air model’s timeline, as its next-generation version is expected to take longer to complete. Also Read: iPhone Fold Launch Is Coming In 2026, But It Could Be Available To You In 2027; Here's Why

Since 2020, Apple has consistently launched four models every year – two Pro variants, one standard model, and a fourth spot that has changed over the years. That position has previously been filled by the mini, the Plus, and most recently, the ultra-thin Air model. Also Read: Apple iPhone 18 Pro Could Drop Dynamic Island, Get Mechanical Camera Upgrade

Multiple reports now point to Apple delaying both the base model and the next Air, leaving room for only three models in 2026.

Foldable iPhone Could Join the Lineup

One of these three models could be Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone. Several earlier leaks have indicated that Apple might make its entry into the foldable segment next year, with a device commonly referred to as the “iPhone Fold.” The company is said to be far behind early adopters like Samsung, and it remains unclear whether the foldable form factor will become a standard part of future iPhone series.

Shipment Growth Expected to Return in 2027

Even with the lineup shrinking for 2026, Apple is still expected to spread out several iPhone launches across the year. IDC also believes shipments will bounce back in 2027, with a projected 5.4 percent growth as Apple returns to a complete lineup and brings out the models pushed from the previous cycle.