As the tech world anticipates 2027, the 20th anniversary of the iPhone, Apple is reportedly planning significant changes to its flagship product. While radical changes are not expected before then, with the iPhone 17 Pro expected to resemble the iPhone 16 Pro, the company is said to be preparing a "major shake-up" to commemorate two decades of the iconic device. These potential changes include a foldable iPhone and a "bold new Pro model" featuring extensive use of glass.

The possibility of a foldable iPhone has been circulating for years, with reports suggesting that Apple has been working on the technology but struggling with durability issues. If the rumors hold true, 2027 could finally be the year Apple enters the foldable market, potentially with a book-style design, or perhaps a clamshell folding design, similar to what Samsung offers.

Perhaps even more intriguing is the rumored "bold new Pro model" that will supposedly make "more extensive use of glass." This design direction aligns with the long-held vision of former Apple design chief Jony Ive, who reportedly desired an iPhone that would "appear like a single sheet of glass." Realizing this vision presents significant engineering challenges. Current iPhones use glass primarily for the front display and back panel, but an all-glass or mostly-glass iPhone would raise durability concerns. Specialized, ultra-strong glass composites would be needed to withstand everyday use.

In addition to durability, Apple's engineers would need to address thermal management issues. Glass is a poor conductor of heat compared to metal, potentially leading to performance throttling and battery degradation. Solving these issues would be crucial for creating a practical and high-performing all-glass iPhone.

It's important to note that Apple may opt for an "iPhone 20" designation to highlight the anniversary milestone, similar to how it jumped from iPhone 8 to "X" for the 10th anniversary release.

Even before the potential 2027 changes, Apple has a busy year ahead in 2025. The iPhone 17 lineup is expected in September, with four distinct models: the standard iPhone 17, the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, the iPhone 17 Pro, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max. All iPhone 17 models are rumored to have upgraded 24-megapixel front-facing cameras. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to feature three 48-megapixel cameras and support 8K video recording. All four iPhones released in 2025 are expected to be updated with ProMotion display technology with a 120Hz maximum refresh rate for smoother scrolling and video content. The iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 17 Pro models are rumored to have a new rectangular camera bar with rounded corners, with the bar spanning the back of the iPhone.

Apple is also expected to unveil iOS 19 at WWDC 2025, with rumors suggesting a sleek, futuristic design inspired by visionOS, featuring glassy, translucent menus and rounded app interfaces, with redesigned Camera and Messages apps. iOS 19 is also said to make Siri more intelligent, with personal context awareness.

While Apple's plans for the 20th-anniversary iPhone are still subject to change, the company's exploration of foldable technology and all-glass designs suggests a willingness to push the boundaries of smartphone innovation.