Apple has been working on a foldable iPhone for nearly a decade, and it looks like the wait might finally be over. If recent leaks and analyst predictions are accurate, Apple could launch its first foldable iPhone as early as 2026. While we still have a long way to go before the official unveiling, the information available so far paints an exciting picture of what to expect.
Here are six major things you should know about Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone.
1. Apple Aims for a Creaseless Display
One of the biggest complaints about foldable smartphones is the visible crease running through the middle of the display. Apple is determined to eliminate this issue, making its foldable iPhone stand out from the competition. Unlike Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and other Android foldables, Apple wants a seamless folding experience with no distracting crease. This could mean Apple is using advanced hinge mechanisms and specialized display technology to achieve a truly smooth screen.
2. It Will Feature a Book-Style Fold
While early rumors suggested Apple might go for a clamshell-style foldable like the Galaxy Z Flip, the latest reports indicate the company is opting for a book-style design similar to the Galaxy Z Fold. This means the device will open like a book, offering a larger display experience that bridges the gap between an iPhone and an iPad mini. However, iOS isn’t currently optimized for horizontal orientations, so Apple is likely making significant software changes. iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and macOS 16 are all rumored to be redesigned for better cross-platform functionality, ensuring a seamless transition between smartphone and tablet modes.
3. Expect a Size Similar to an iPad Mini
If you’re wondering about the size, think of the iPad mini. When folded, the outer display is expected to be around 5.5 inches—smaller than the current iPhone 15 lineup, which starts at 6.1 inches. However, once unfolded, the screen expands to 7.8 inches, bringing it close to the 7.9-inch iPad mini. This could offer a fantastic experience for multitasking, gaming, and consuming media, especially if Apple implements an improved multi-window interface.
4. It Will Be Ultra-Thin When Opened
Apple’s foldable iPhone is rumored to borrow technology from the upcoming iPhone 17 Air, making it exceptionally thin. Reports suggest the device could be just 4.8mm thick when unfolded, making it Apple’s thinnest device ever—beating even the 5.1mm iPad Pro. However, when folded, it’s expected to measure around 9mm to 9.5mm, which is still relatively chunky compared to standard iPhones but reasonable for a foldable device.
5. Touch ID Could Make a Comeback
Face ID has been Apple’s go-to authentication method for years, but the foldable iPhone might take a different approach. According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple could use a Touch ID fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button instead of Face ID. This change would allow Apple to slim down the front-facing TrueDepth camera module, making the device thinner and more practical.
6. It’s Going to Be Expensive
Foldable phones are notoriously pricey, and Apple’s version is unlikely to be an exception. Current estimates suggest the foldable iPhone could cost between $2,000 and $2,500, making it one of the most expensive iPhones ever released. Given Apple’s reputation for premium pricing, this isn't surprising, but it does mean the device will be a luxury purchase for most users.
Should You Wait for Apple’s Foldable iPhone?
If you’re excited about foldable technology but hesitant about current options due to durability concerns or software limitations, Apple’s entry into the market could be worth the wait. The company is known for refining existing technology to make it more polished and user-friendly. While nothing is set in stone yet, the increasing frequency of leaks and reports suggests Apple is serious about making a foldable iPhone a reality.
With a potential launch date in late 2026, we’ll likely hear more details in the coming months as Apple’s plans solidify. Stay tuned for updates as the foldable iPhone inches closer to becoming a game-changing reality in the smartphone industry.
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