Apple has big plans for its 20th anniversary iPhone, but tariffs cast a shadow

Summary

• Apple may introduce a “bold new Pro model” for the iPhone’s 20th anniversary in 2027.
• Don’t expect a drastic redesign for the iPhone 17 Pro, contrary to rumors of a two-tone design.
• Apple’s smart hub could be delayed until 2026, and Apple is also assessing tariffs and may adjust iPhone prices to mitigate impacts.

Tariffs are currently a significant concern, prompting companies worldwide, including Apple — one of the largest smartphone makers — to brace for possible impacts. The true effects of the Trump Administration’s global reciprocal tariffs on consumer prices, both online and in stores, are still being assessed. However, there is increasing speculation that these tariffs may influence the cost of the iPhone.

Amidst the ongoing discussions about tariffs, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has also provided new updates on Apple’s ambitious plans for its 20th anniversary iPhone. Additionally, there is news on Apple’s much-anticipated smart home hub, and insights on the expected design of the iPhone 17 Pro. Plus, an assessment of the implications of tariffs on Apple’s iPhone.

4 20th Anniversary iPhone

Apple reportedly has “bold” plans

The year 2027 will mark the 20th anniversary of the iPhone. Steve Jobs first took to the stage in 2007 to reveal the iPhone, and since then, it has evolved into one of the most advanced and popular devices on the planet. Gurman reports that Apple is planning “a major shake-up” to celebrate the iPhone’s 20th anniversary, including a “bold new Pro model that makes more extensive use of glass.”

A new foldable iPhone is also expected to be released in 2027. Reportedly, Apple plans to release its first foldable iPhone in 2026, so it’s unclear if this new foldable is the second generation of that or a new design. Apple’s first foldable iPhone is expected to be a book-style design, so the company could release another version of it with a clamshell folding design, similar to what Samsung does.

3 iPhone 17 Pro design

It won’t be what you think

For months, rumors have circulated that the iPhone 17 Pro’s design will differ drastically from the iPhone 16 Pro, particularly due to the rumored addition of a larger camera bar in a color distinct from the rest of the phone. However, Gurman advises against expecting “a particularly bold look” for the iPhone 17 Pro.

Gurman states that the iPhone 17 Pro will not feature a “two-toned back,” and the camera bar will share the same color as the rest of the phone. Reportedly, the renders circulating online (such as the image above) do not provide “an accurate representation” of the iPhone 17 Pro. Therefore, it seems the iPhone 17 Pro might ultimately resemble the iPhone 16 Pro after all.

2 The future of Apple’s smart home hub

A 2026 release is looking more likely

Reports about Apple launching a new smart home hub first surfaced late last year, and it was believed the device would debut sometime this year. However, a lot has changed in the first few months of 2025, particularly Apple delaying some of Siri’s Apple Intelligence features that the device would depend on.

Gurman reports that Apple “is considering a delay until 2026” for its smart home hub, which would give the company more time to refine and release its more personalized version of Siri. Apple admitted in early March that this process is going to “take us longer than we thought.” Apple’s smart home hub is essentially its version of Google’s Nest Hub.

1 How the iPhone will be impacted tariffs

Apple is actively assessing the situation

Every tech company in the world is assessing the tariff situation, and Apple is no exception. According to Gurman, Apple will take a multi-step approach to tariffs to mitigate their impact on consumers and, of course, their bottom line. First, Gurman believes Apple’s procurement teams will push its manufacturing partners to cut costs. He also believes Apple is prepared to absorb “a small percentage of the costs” associated with tariffs. Reportedly, Apple’s hardware profit margin is “around 45 percent,” so the Cupertino-based company “has room to play with if needed.”

Gurman notes that Apple is currently in “assessment mode,” meaning the company is still determining the best course of action to navigate tariffs. He thinks Apple will “seriously consider” adjusting the price of the iPhone. Given that many consumers are aware of the tariffs, it gives Apple some leverage to increase prices without being accused of price-gouging. “It helps that consumers have probably heard about the outside factors here and won’t see it as a cash grab,” Gurman writes. Apple could also consider supply chain changes to lessen the impact of tariffs.