Core Viewpoint - Apple is changing its iPhone marketing strategy to release lower-end models in the first half of the year and higher-end models in the second half, aiming to adapt to competitive pressures in markets like China [1][2]. Group 1: Future iPhone Release Strategy - Apple plans to launch multiple iPhone models from 2025 to 2027, including the iPhone 18e in spring 2027, while the iPhone 17e is not mentioned for 2026 [2]. - Starting in 2026, Apple will stagger the release of iPhones to fill the marketing gap left by competitors who typically launch flagship devices in the first half of the year [2][3]. - The new release strategy marks a significant shift for Apple, as it will be the first time since the iPhone 4S established the fall release model in 2011 that Apple intentionally separates the launch timing of flagship iPhone series [3]. Group 2: Competitive Landscape - Chinese smartphone manufacturers like Xiaomi, Huawei, OPPO, and vivo are increasingly capturing market share from Apple by launching competitive flagship devices in the first half of the year [3]. - Huawei's recent strong return to the high-end smartphone market poses a significant challenge to Apple's market position [3]. Group 3: Upcoming iPhone Models Timeline - The timeline for upcoming iPhone models is as follows: - Late 2025: iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Slim, and iPhone 17 - Early 2026: iPhone 17e - Late 2026: Foldable iPhone, iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone 18 Pro, and iPhone 18 Slim - Early 2027: iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e - Late 2027: Foldable iPhone 2 (development has started), iPhone 19 Pro Max, iPhone 19 Pro, and larger-screen iPhone 19 Slim [4].