After years of observing competitors experiment with foldable smartphones, Apple is finally expected to enter the foldable market in 2026. According to multiple industry reports and supply chain sources, the much-anticipated iPhone Fold could mark one of the biggest design shifts in iPhone history.
While foldable devices have already become common in the Android ecosystem, Apple has traditionally taken a patient approach, preferring refinement over speed. If the leaks are accurate, the iPhone Fold may reflect that philosophy – focusing on durability, premium materials, improved battery life, and a nearly crease-free display.
Here’s a detailed look at everything currently rumored about the upcoming device.
A Book-Style Foldable Design
Unlike flip-style foldables that prioritize compactness, Apple is reportedly developing a book-style foldable. This means the device would open horizontally like a notebook, transforming from a smartphone into a tablet-sized screen.
This design suggests Apple is targeting productivity-focused users who want a phone that doubles as a mini tablet rather than a fashion-centric compact device.
Leaks indicate that the iPhone Fold could measure under 10mm when closed and less than 5mm when opened, which would make it impressively slim for a foldable device. Button placement may also change slightly, with volume controls shifting toward the top edge, while the power button remains on the side.
Display Size and Crease Reduction
The display is expected to be the centrepiece of the iPhone Fold.
Reports suggest:
- Outer display: Approximately 5.3 to 5.5 inches
- Inner foldable display: Around 7.7 to 7.8 inches
When closed, users would get a traditional smartphone experience. Once opened, the device could offer a near iPad-like workspace, ideal for multitasking, content consumption, and productivity tasks.
One of the biggest challenges for foldable phones has been the visible crease at the folding point. Apple is reportedly working on reducing this issue significantly. Industry sources claim the company is using a reinforced metal support plate beneath the display to distribute stress evenly when folded.
The hinge mechanism is said to incorporate liquid metal components, a material known for its strength and resistance to wear. If successful, the crease could become barely noticeable in everyday use.
In terms of materials, Apple may use a titanium-based frame to ensure strength without excessive weight. Combined with premium hinge construction, this approach signals Apple’s focus on long-term durability.
Camera Setup and Biometric Changes
Apple is expected to maintain its “less is more” camera philosophy rather than loading the device with multiple lenses.
Leaks indicate:
- Dual rear cameras, both 48-megapixel sensors
- Separate front cameras for folded and unfolded use
Some reports suggest that the inner display could feature an under-display camera to maintain a clean, uninterrupted screen experience. Meanwhile, the outer display may use a small punch-hole cutout.
Interestingly, the iPhone Fold may skip Face ID due to internal space limitations caused by the hinge and battery design. Instead, Apple could bring back Touch ID integrated into the side button – similar to some of its tablet models.
On the connectivity front, the device is expected to use Apple’s in-house C2 modem as part of the company’s gradual move away from Qualcomm components. The phone may also adopt an eSIM-only setup, eliminating the physical SIM tray.
Battery Capacity Could Be a Major Highlight
Foldable phones often struggle with battery life due to larger displays and compact internal layouts. However, the iPhone Fold might turn this into a strength.
Supply chain reports suggest Apple is experimenting with high-density battery cells and thinner internal components to maximize capacity. If accurate, the device could feature the largest battery ever included in an iPhone.
A bigger battery would be essential to support:
- A nearly 8-inch internal display
- High-performance processing
- Enhanced multitasking features
While exact capacity numbers remain unknown, Apple appears focused on ensuring all-day usability.
Expected Price Range
Premium innovation usually comes with a premium price, and the iPhone Fold is unlikely to be an exception.
Industry estimates suggest the device could be priced between $1,800 and $2,500 in the United States. If this pricing holds true, it would make the iPhone Fold the most expensive iPhone ever released.
This pricing strategy positions the foldable iPhone firmly in the ultra-premium category, targeting early adopters and technology enthusiasts rather than mainstream buyers.
Color Options and Finish
At launch, Apple may keep color options minimal. Current testing reportedly focuses on classic black and white finishes. There is no confirmation yet about additional color variants, though Apple could expand options later depending on demand.
Given Apple’s design language in recent years, the focus is likely to remain on clean aesthetics and premium materials rather than bold experimentation.
Expected Launch Timeline
If development progresses as expected, the iPhone Fold could debut in September 2026, aligning with Apple’s traditional fall launch window.
Reports indicate that production may begin in the second half of 2026, with manufacturing handled by Foxconn. However, foldable technology remains complex, and delays into 2027 cannot be ruled out if Apple decides to further refine the hinge or display durability.
Final Conclusion
The iPhone Fold, if launched in 2026, could represent a significant milestone for Apple. Instead of rushing into the foldable market, the company appears to be prioritizing durability, battery life, and structural strength.
With a book-style design, titanium frame, improved hinge mechanism, high-resolution displays, and potentially the largest battery ever in an iPhone, Apple seems determined to deliver a polished foldable experience rather than just following a trend.
While many details remain unofficial, one thing is clear – Apple’s entry into the foldable category would likely reshape the premium smartphone landscape. As 2026 approaches, more concrete information is expected to emerge, bringing us closer to what could be one of the most ambitious iPhone launches in years.
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