Apple is breaking new ground with the upcoming foldable iPhone. Rumors have swirled for nearly a decade, and the latest whispers point to a potential launch in late 2026 or early 2027. The device is expected to take on a book-style design that sets it apart from the clamshell models seen in the market. Apple aims for a creaseless display that promises a seamless viewing experience. The company is leaving no stone unturned as it works to perfect the hinge and display, ensuring that no distracting crease mars the screen.
Here is everything you need to know about the long-rumored foldable iPhone.
Design and display
The foldable iPhone is rumored to feature two screens—a 5.5-inch outer display and a 7.8-inch inner display that compares closely to the iPad mini. The compact outer design makes the device pocketable, while the unfolded screen offers a tablet-like experience. Apple is borrowing technology from its latest models and the rumored iPhone 17 Air.
Performance and durability
Durability and battery life are major priorities for Apple as it ventures into foldable devices. The company is said to be working with top suppliers to perfect the hinge mechanism. Early reports mention the use of liquid metal and innovative display driver IC technology. This could lead to a thinner design with improved battery performance.
The device is expected to run on an advanced A20 chip built on a 2-nanometer process, ensuring that it is both fast and power efficient.
Touch ID and camera
Apple might bring back Touch ID by integrating it into the power button if the TrueDepth camera cannot be slimmed down enough. The device is likely to sport a dual-camera system. While this may fall short of the triple-camera setups seen on other flagship models, it promises to deliver the top-tier performance that Apple fans expect.
Optimized iOS
Apple’s foldable iPhone is expected to bring significant software optimizations to enhance user experience. iOS could be redesigned to support features like advanced multitasking, seamless transitions between folded and unfolded modes, and optimized app layouts.
Features such as split-screen multitasking, a dynamic dock, and exclusive gestures could make the most of the foldable display. Apple’s history of refining software for new hardware suggests a polished experience that competes with foldable devices from Samsung and Google.
Pricing and release timeline
The pricing for the Apple foldable iPhone is rumored to be steep. Early estimates range from $2,000 to $2,500. This premium price tag positions the device alongside other high-end smartphones and underlines Apple’s commitment to quality and innovation. With competitors already offering foldable models, Apple’s entry into the market is set to shake up expectations.
While Apple has not officially confirmed a foldable iPhone, industry analysts, including Ming-Chi Kuo, have speculated that the device could arrive around 2026 or later.
