Apple’s iPhone lineup is potentially gearing up for an unexpected rerun: the iPhone 18 series might include a comeback of the iPhone Plus model, which has struggled in recent years. According to analyst Tim Long, Apple could release an entry-level iPhone 18e alongside either an iPhone 18 Plus or a second-generation iPhone Air in March next year, shaking up the phones we thought were out of the picture.
This speculation comes amid mixed success stories for Apple’s lineup. The iPhone mini models, including the iPhone 12 mini and 13 mini, never quite caught on with consumers and were shelved. The iPhone Plus models – 14 Plus, 15 Plus, and 16 Plus – attempted to capture a segment looking for larger screens without the premium Pro features but didn’t generate enough enthusiasm either, leading Apple to introduce the iPhone Air as a lighter alternative. Yet, the Air hasn’t made a big splash either, with some reports suggesting it sold even worse than the 16 Plus.
Possible iPhone 18 models and comeback of the iPhone 18 Plus
Long’s mention of the iPhone 18 Plus is the first in a while to hint at reviving a model that was mostly phased out, which could indicate Apple might be reconsidering its product stratification. Whether this is a final plan or early supply chain whispers remains unclear, especially since rumors have also floated around a revamped iPhone Air coming back into the fold.
Expected launch timing for the iPhone 18 and iPhone Fold
Another twist in the report is the possible December release of the iPhone Fold, trailing the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max expected in September. This staggered rollout echoes the pattern from 2017, when Apple released the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus months before the iPhone X, perhaps signaling a renewed strategy of carefully timed launches to maximize impact across different hardware tiers.
Challenges for the iPhone 18 Plus revival amid consumer trends
Despite the buzz, many industry watchers remain skeptical about the return of the Plus line. The Plus models’ lackluster reception makes it a curious choice for Apple to resurrect, especially given their recent struggles to find a solid audience. With consumers shifting more towards Pro and Max variants for premium features and size, a middle-ground Plus might feel redundant unless Apple tweaks the formula significantly.
Apple’s strategy in reviving older models like the iPhone 18 Plus
Apple’s willingness to experiment with release timing and model variety could hint at a cautious exploration of what customers want, but until more concrete details arrive, the iPhone 18 Plus revival should be taken with a grain of salt. After all, bringing back a previously shelved model isn’t unprecedented for Apple, but it rarely happens without a clear strategy or unique selling point.