Apple may make another major change to its iPhone lineup next spring, with a new rumor claiming the iPhone Air 2 could take the place of the standard iPhone 18 and become Apple’s mainstream model.
According to the latest claim, Apple would position the iPhone Air 2 as the entry point to its flagship lineup with a starting price of $999. However, previous reports have consistently said Apple plans to launch the iPhone Air 2 alongside the standard iPhone 18 and cheaper iPhone 18e in spring 2027, so the reported replacement remains unconfirmed.
Apple’s rumored spring 2027 iPhone lineup
If Apple follows its previously reported schedule, its spring lineup would look like this:
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| Model | Expected launch |
|---|---|
| iPhone 18 | Spring 2027 |
| iPhone Air 2 | Spring 2027 |
| iPhone 18e | Spring 2027 |
Apple is expected to introduce the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and its first foldable iPhone in fall 2026, separating its premium launches from the lower-priced models.
What to expect from iPhone Air 2
The second-generation Air is rumored to address several limitations of the original model while retaining its thin design. Expected upgrades include:
- A second rear camera, potentially a 48MP ultrawide
- Apple’s new A20-series processor
- Improved battery capacity and efficiency
- A 6.5-inch 120Hz OLED display
- A possible smaller Dynamic Island
Reports have also pointed to a spring 2027 launch after Apple delayed the phone from its original fall schedule.
The biggest unanswered question is whether Apple will actually drop the regular iPhone 18. Current evidence still favors both models launching together, while the newer replacement claim adds another possibility to Apple’s changing iPhone strategy.
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