In a bold move that could reshape the smartphone landscape, Apple Inc. is reportedly planning a series of groundbreaking iPhone redesigns over the next three years. The tech giant's strategy, set to unfold from 2025 to 2027, promises to introduce innovative features and form factors that could redefine the iPhone experience.

iPhone Air: A New Direction for 2025

The journey begins in September 2025 with the launch of the iPhone 17 lineup. The standout addition to this family will be the iPhone Air, a svelte alternative to the iPhone 16 Plus. This new model is designed to appeal to users who prioritize portability without compromising on screen size. Key features of the iPhone Air include:

• A thinner and lighter profile
• A single rear camera, streamlining the device's aesthetics
• A smaller battery, likely compensated by improved energy efficiency
• eSIM-only connectivity, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card
• Apple's in-house modem chip, marking a significant step in the company's vertical integration strategy

The iPhone 17 Pro models are not left behind in this refresh. They are slated to receive notable camera upgrades, enhancing their already impressive photographic capabilities. Additionally, a new orange finish will join the color palette, offering users more personalization options.

Folding into the Future: 2026's Foldable iPhone

Apple's 2026 plans could mark a paradigm shift in the company's approach to smartphone design. The tech world has long speculated about Apple's entry into the foldable phone market, and it appears that 2026 will be the year this becomes a reality. The foldable iPhone is expected to feature:

• A book-style hinge, similar to some existing foldable devices in the market
• An array of four cameras, potentially offering unprecedented versatility in mobile photography
• Under-display Touch ID, seamlessly integrating biometric security
• In-cell touch screen technology, aimed at minimizing the crease often associated with foldable displays

2027: Celebrating with 'iPhone 20'

As Apple approaches the 20th anniversary of the original iPhone, the company appears to be preparing for a celebratory 'iPhone 20' model in 2027. This device is rumored to feature:

• Curved glass edges, potentially offering a more immersive visual experience
• A reimagined iOS interface, optimized for what Apple calls 'Liquid Glass' displays

Beyond iPhones: Apple's Ecosystem Expansion

While the iPhone remains Apple's flagship product, the company is not neglecting its other product lines. Over the coming years, consumers can expect:

• New Apple Watch models with expanded health monitoring capabilities
• A second-generation Vision Pro headset, slated for 2026, building on the mixed reality experience
• A HomePod with a display, expected in 2025, potentially competing more directly with smart home hubs
• AirPods Pro with advanced features like hearing health monitoring and body-temperature tracking

As always with future product rumors, it's important to note that Apple's plans may evolve or change before these products reach the market. However, if these reports prove accurate, Apple seems poised to maintain its position at the forefront of consumer technology innovation for years to come.

Apple Inc. is reportedly in early discussions with Google to potentially use the Gemini AI model for a significant revamp of its Siri voice assistant. This move comes as Apple faces delays in upgrading Siri, with the company now considering external AI partnerships to enhance its voice assistant capabilities.

Potential Collaboration with Google

According to sources familiar with the matter, Apple has approached Google about building a custom AI model for the new Siri. Google has reportedly begun training on a model that could run on Apple's servers, signaling a potential collaboration between the two tech giants in the AI space.

Internal Restructuring and AI Development

The news of potential external partnerships comes amid internal changes at Apple:

• The Siri upgrade has been postponed due to engineering setbacks.
• Apple's AI chief, John Giannandrea, has been sidelined from Siri development.
• The project is now overseen by Craig Federighi and Mike Rockwell.

Internally, Apple is testing two versions of the revamped Siri:

1. 'Linwood' - powered by Apple's own AI models
2. 'Glenwood' - using external technology

Exploring Multiple AI Partnerships

While talks with Google are ongoing, Apple is considering other AI partners:

• The company has held discussions with Anthropic and OpenAI for potential partnerships.
• These exploratory talks suggest Apple is seriously considering external AI technology to boost Siri's capabilities.

Challenges in Apple's AI Team

Apple's AI efforts have faced some setbacks:

• The company's AI models team has experienced notable departures.
• Chief architect Ruoming Pang left for Meta.

Market Response

The news of potential collaboration between Apple and Google has been well-received by investors:

• Apple shares rose 1.40% following the news.
• Google's parent company Alphabet saw its stock climb 2.90%.

Current Status of Negotiations

It's important to note that while discussions are underway, the situation remains fluid:

• No formal commercial negotiations are currently taking place.
• Apple is still several weeks away from deciding whether to use internal or external AI models for Siri's revamp.

Foxconn Recalls Chinese Engineers from India Factory

In a separate development affecting Apple's supply chain, Foxconn Technology Group has recalled approximately 300 Chinese engineers from its Yuzhan Technology component factory in Tamil Nadu, India. This marks the second such withdrawal in recent months. The company is replacing departing Chinese staff with Taiwanese engineers.

The Yuzhan factory, which produces enclosures and display modules for older iPhone models, began production months ago. This move follows Beijing officials verbally encouraging regulatory agencies to curb technology transfers and equipment exports to India and Southeast Asia.

The withdrawal threatens Apple's efforts to rapidly localize its supply chain in India. However, the company can mitigate the impact by increasing display imports and relying on other local suppliers for enclosures.

Despite these challenges, Apple is making progress in its Indian manufacturing efforts. The company is producing all four iPhone 17 models in India ahead of their debut, marking the first time all new variations will ship from India from launch.

As the AI landscape continues to evolve rapidly, and supply chain dynamics shift, these developments could significantly impact Apple's strategies in both AI integration and global manufacturing. Stakeholders will be watching closely as Apple navigates these challenges and opportunities in the coming months.