Rumors are circulating that Apple might replace the upcoming iPhone 18 with an "Air" model as early as 2027, according to a report from a leaker known as Early Apple. This suggestion conflicts with earlier leaks that predicted a 2027 lineup of three models: the iPhone 18, the iPhone 18e, and the iPhone Air 2. These models were expected to launch in the spring of 2027, following the release of the Pro models and the debut of Apple's first foldable iPhone. The new claim has raised questions about the previously expected product lineup. Early Apple has previously made headlines, such as publishing a photo that supposedly showed a prototype of the iPhone 18 Pro. However, this leaker is relatively new and lacks a documented history or clear origin, making it challenging to determine the reliability of this latest rumor. There is currently no other evidence confirming that Apple is planning to abandon the standard iPhone 18 in favor of the iPhone Air 2. This rumor remains isolated compared to other, more substantiated information that has been collected so far. The idea that the iPhone Air could eventually replace the standard iPhone model is not entirely out of the question. In the past, there have been discussions about the two models converging over time, though these have been considered more of a long-term possibility. Another leaker, Jon Prosser, had previously suggested a similar scenario, though he placed it in the distant future. His reasoning was based on a specific detail: the iPhone Air 2 could gain a second rear camera sensor, which would bring it closer in features to the standard iPhone. Apple has a history of introducing new features on its high-end models before rolling them out to more affordable models. This pattern makes it plausible that the two product lines could eventually converge, but it doesn’t confirm the more radical scenario proposed by Early Apple. Meanwhile, Apple is set to hold a meeting tonight at 7 p.m. French time to announce updates during its traditional back-to-school keynote.