This fall, Apple will make the biggest change to its iPhone lineup in 7 years, eliminating the base model. Find out why the company is taking this step and why iPhone prices in India are still high.
Apple has made the biggest change to its iPhone launch strategy in 7 years. The company will not release a base model iPhone this fall, moving to a more compact lineup of two models.
What has changed in 7 years and why there will be no base model this fall
Apple is changing its fall launch strategy by releasing only two iPhone models this season, focusing on the Pro models, which accounted for 54% of sales at the start of 2026, compared to 26% for the regular model. “This is exactly how Apple plays the game when the market has started to slow down in terms of smartphone adoption and upgrades,” analyst Geronimo said. This shift is also driven by supply chain pressures. “High memory prices are not helping Apple release multiple iPhones at the same time,” said Neil Shah, vice president of research at Counterpoint Research. Releasing fewer models makes it easier to find suppliers.
At the event, Apple also unveiled its first foldable iPhone Duo, starting at $1,999. The device features an updated iOS for dual screens, dual-app multitasking, and Pencil support. “For a device that plays such a central role in your life, a larger display will open up entirely new possibilities,” said John Ternus. According to hardware director Johnny Srouji, the foldable phone features Apple’s own second-generation C2 modem, which is 15% less power-hungry and 50% faster than Qualcomm’s.
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Why do prices remain high in India?
Apple has deliberately maintained premium pricing in India despite changes in launch frequency, avoiding steep price cuts like other brands have done. High import duties, higher component costs and strong demand for Pro models are helping to keep prices stable. With Pro models accounting for more than half of sales, Apple is focusing on selling fewer, more expensive and more profitable iPhones.