Why Apple’s New OS Naming Could Make ‘iPhone 17’ Sound Odd – Insights from 9to5Mac

Just when we thought the world had moved past the chatter about Apple’s iPhone names, it’s back in the spotlight. Recently, news emerged that Apple plans to rename its operating systems to match the release year. While it might seem odd at first, it’s not too out of the ordinary. After all, some car brands do this too.

Jumping to iOS 26 straight from where we are now will feel strange for a bit. However, after some time, it might just become the new normal. But this shift brings attention to how Apple names its iPhones. Let’s face it, calling a device running iOS 26 and an iPhone 18 feels a bit off, and it could feel even more awkward in a few years.

Timing Is Key

There’s ongoing speculation that Apple might replace the “Plus” model with an “Air” version. This could be a golden opportunity for them to refresh their naming conventions across the board. Names like “Pro Max” could be replaced with “Ultra.”

This change could align iPhone naming with Apple’s other products, like the Apple Watch and the M-series chips, which have adopted this “Ultra” branding. Many fans thought that Apple would eventually ditch numbers altogether, opting for a more straightforward naming style.

But as we dive deeper into this world of naming, it’s becoming clear that the software suggesting it’s 2026 while the hardware still leans on older names could create more confusion.

What Are the Possible Changes?

Apple has a few options on the table:

1. Stick with the Status Quo: They might maintain the current iPhone naming system and let the operating systems adopt the year-based names. It’s the easiest path.

2. Sync Everything: They could go full steam ahead and rename the iPhone to match the operating system, resulting in the iPhone 26 releasing alongside iOS 26. It might seem confusing initially, but people adapt.

3. Ditch the Numbers: This option is bold yet unlikely. They could drop the numbering altogether for marketing names like iPhone, iPhone Air, iPhone Pro, and iPhone Ultra, while using the release year for the actual product name. However, this could complicate things since Apple keeps older models in stores even after new releases.

Adding to the mix is the iPhone 16e, the budget version they recently launched, clearly indicated by its number. It raises questions about how Apple will handle future releases and names.

User Reactions and Trends

On social media, discussions surrounding this topic have gained traction. Many users express curiosity about how these changes will affect branding. Some prefer the current numbering system, while others are ready for something new. The trends show a split among fans, with many eager for a clearer naming strategy.

In the end, no matter what direction Apple takes with its iPhone names, it seems like this topic will continue to fuel debates online. What are your thoughts on these potential changes?

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