Apple’s 2027 Roadmap: 20th Anniversary iPhone, Foldable iPhone, and Camera AirPods
Apple plans to launch a 20th-anniversary iPhone with an edge-to-edge display, a second-generation foldable iPhone, and camera-equipped AirPods in late 2027, according to a Bloomberg report. These devices will likely feature a 2-nanometer A21 chip, code-named “Naxos,” as Apple integrates more advanced visual AI models into its hardware ecosystem.
What will the 20th-anniversary iPhone look like?
The anniversary model will feature a “nearly edge-to-edge display” with curved glass that wraps around the sides of the device, according to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg. This design represents a departure from the flat-edge aesthetic seen in recent Pro models.
Apple intends to release this design in two sizes, which Gurman reports will be similar to the dimensions of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. These anniversary models carry the internal code names V73 and V74.
Why are camera-equipped AirPods delayed?
AirPods with built-in cameras, code-named B798, are now scheduled for a late 2027 launch. Bloomberg reports the product was originally slated for a 2026 release but slipped due to prolonged struggles with artificial intelligence software.
The delay stems from two primary hurdles: the general rollout of Apple Intelligence and the need to develop specific visual AI models. These models must be capable of identifying objects in a user’s surroundings in real-time, a requirement that pushed the deadline back, according to the report.
How will the A-series chips evolve through 2028?
Apple is accelerating its chip miniaturization. The anniversary iPhone and the second-generation foldable iPhone will both run on the A21 chip, which uses a 2-nanometer process and is internally dubbed “Naxos.”
The roadmap doesn’t stop at 2nm. Bloomberg reports that by 2028, high-end iPhones will move to the A22 Pro chip. This processor could utilize a new 1.4-nanometer production technology, significantly increasing efficiency and processing power over current generations.
Comparing the Chip Roadmap
Based on the reported timeline, Apple’s processor trajectory looks like this:
- Late 2024/2025: A20 Pro (iPhone 18 Pro/Max)
- Early 2027: Base A20 (Standard iPhone 18)
- Late 2027: A21 “Naxos” 2nm (Anniversary & Foldable models)
- 2028: A22 Pro 1.4nm (High-end models)
When will the foldable iPhone arrive?
A second-generation foldable iPhone is expected in late 2027. Like the anniversary models, the foldable will be powered by the 2-nanometer A21 chip. While a first-generation foldable hasn’t been officially detailed in this report, the “second-generation” label suggests Apple is refining the hinge and display technology before a wide commercial push.
This timeline suggests Apple is aligning its most radical hardware changes—foldables, wrap-around screens, and camera-integrated wearables—into a single 2027 window to coincide with the anniversary celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 20th-anniversary iPhone coming out?
According to Bloomberg, it is scheduled for release in late 2027.
What is the A21 chip?
The A21, code-named “Naxos,” is a 2-nanometer processor designed for the 2027 anniversary and foldable iPhone models.
What features will the new AirPods have?
The B798 AirPods will feature built-in cameras and visual AI capable of identifying objects in the user’s environment.
Will there be a foldable iPhone?
Yes, Bloomberg reports a second-generation foldable iPhone is on track for a late 2027 launch.
What do you think about the wrap-around glass design? Would you switch to a foldable iPhone in 2027? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest hardware leaks.