Apple has launched the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max in 2026, but the standard iPhone 18 has not been released alongside them. This year’s updates focus primarily on the high-end models, which come with higher price tags. Apple has also introduced the iPhone Duo, its first folding smartphone, which will be available starting in October. The 2026 lineup includes a partially updated classic lineup, making this a somewhat confusing year for consumers choosing between different iPhone models. For most users in 2026, the iPhone 17 is still recommended as the standard model has not been replaced. It now features a 6.3-inch OLED screen with a 120 Hz ProMotion display, improving its competitiveness against rivals. The iPhone 17 includes an A19 chip, 256 GB of base storage, and compatibility with Apple Intelligence. However, its price has increased by 150 euros since its initial release. The iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are currently Apple’s top models, but they come at a high cost. The 18 Pro is priced at 1,479 euros, and the Pro Max at 1,629 euros, both 150 euros more than their predecessors. The Pro Max has a larger 6.9-inch screen and a more generous battery, though its battery life is slightly reduced in Europe due to the inclusion of a SIM tray. The iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max remain strong alternatives, especially on sale, as they retain features like three 48 Mpx sensors and a telephoto lens. However, they are no longer available in Apple’s catalog. The iPhone 17e offers a good middle ground, especially on sale, with 256 GB of base storage, MagSafe compatibility, and an A19 chip. However, it lacks a 120 Hz screen and a single rear camera, which limits its versatility. Its official price is 719 euros, but it now costs 869 euros at Apple, which many consider too expensive for its features. The iPhone 16e is a more affordable option with an A18 chip, excellent battery life, and a 48 Mpx camera. It lacks some of the 17e’s improvements, like MagSafe and an anti-reflective screen, but it remains a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers. The iPhone 15 is a good investment in the used market, offering USB-C support and a pale color design. However, it lacks Apple Intelligence and may miss out on newer features as Apple increasingly integrates AI into iOS. The iPhone Air, Apple’s new ultra-thin model, is not currently recommended due to compromises in battery life and photography. It is expected to improve the overall lineup once it matures. Older models like the iPhone 8, 8 Plus, X, XS, XR, 11, and SE (2020 and 2022) are not recommended due to outdated designs, poor screen quality, and lack of updates. The iPhone 12, 13, and 14 are still receiving updates but are now considered older models. Apple guarantees at least five years of security updates for its iPhones, with some models receiving updates for even longer. However, Apple Intelligence is only available on more recent and powerful models, including the iPhone 15 Pro, 16, and 17 ranges. Apple Intelligence is available in the United States since October 2024 and in France since April 2025 with iOS 18.4. A major evolution of Siri based on generative AI is expected in 2026, likely on June 8.