Apple is reportedly preparing a substantial design overhaul for its iPhone lineup, culminating in a major glass-centric makeover for the device's 20th anniversary in 2027. This ambitious plan seeks to make the iPhone appear as a single, continuous piece of glass, according to sources familiar with the company's confidential plans.
Before the 2027 milestone, new iPhone Pro models are expected to launch next year featuring a more pronounced glass design. These phones, internally codenamed V73 and V74, will incorporate glass on both the front and back, curving around the sides, with a distinct metal band positioned in the middle. This approach follows earlier considerations for an even more extreme, all-glass design, which Apple's design studio favored but ultimately dropped in early stages due to significant difficulties in joining the glass panels and scaling production.
Analyst Reports and Market Impact
This information refutes a recent report by Jefferies analyst Edison Lee, who claimed Apple had canceled plans for an all-glass iPhone. Lee had downgraded Apple shares, suggesting the decision could hinder the company's strategy to sell more expensive smartphones. Following his report, Apple shares experienced a decline of up to 2.8% in New York.
An Apple representative declined to comment on the ongoing speculation regarding future product designs. However, the company typically finalizes iPhone designs approximately a year before their official launch, indicating that the 2027 iPhone plans are likely well into testing and mostly settled, though minor adjustments could still occur.
Beyond the 2027 Anniversary iPhone
The iPhone remains Apple's primary revenue driver, accounting for roughly half of its total earnings, with sales growing faster than other business segments. In addition to the 2027 anniversary model, Apple has several other iPhone releases in the pipeline:
- Foldable iPhone: Expected next month, potentially representing the most significant design change in iPhone history.
- iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max: Anticipated with major camera improvements and a new dark red color option.
- Standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e: Scheduled for release in the spring.
- Second-generation iPhone Air: Expected to feature a dual-camera system, an enhanced processor, and improved battery life.
Beyond smartphones, Apple is actively developing other innovative products, including smart glasses, AirPods with integrated cameras, and various AI-focused wearable and home devices. This expanding product roadmap is expected to support John Ternus, who is set to assume the role of Apple's new CEO on September 1.