After years of playing it safe with the iPhone’s design, Apple appears ready to explore new form factors and more radical design choices. The company has already taken the first step in that direction with the iPhone Air, and signs point to a foldable iPhone as the next big change. Now, it looks like Apple’s design evolution is about to get even more interesting.
According to The Information, Apple plans to release a special-edition iPhone celebrating the device’s 20th anniversary in fall 2027. People involved in the project have told the publication that this model will “feature an enclosure on the front and back that curves around the device’s edges, eliminating the black frame and expanding the screen size.”
Although the report reveals no additional details, the description suggests that the special-edition iPhone could resemble curved-display Android phones from Samsung, Motorola, and Xiaomi. If that’s the case, this design may look spectacular but might not go down well with users.
Visual appeal vs. practical use
Android OEMs are already moving away from this design trend, as curved displays that flow over the edges have often drawn criticism despite their striking appearance. Accidental touches are a major concern, coupled with a higher risk of damage when dropped and limited screen protector compatibility.
It’s also not immediately clear how much of this curved design users will be able to appreciate after they slap a cover on the device. For now, it’s too early to say how Apple plans to tackle the accidental touch and durability issues on the special-edition iPhone.
With the iPhone’s 20th anniversary still two years away, Apple has plenty of time to refine the design and tackle the issues users commonly face on phones with curved displays. How the company handles this could determine whether the special-edition model is celebrated or criticized.