With over half a decade of foldable phones on the market, devices from Samsung, Google, and Motorola have made headlines. The Galaxy Z Fold 7, Motorola Razr Ultra, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold dominate the landscape, leaving many Apple enthusiasts wondering about the prospect of a foldable iPhone.
While there’s no official word from Apple on a foldable iPhone yet, the recent launch of the iPhone 17 series, along with the super-thin iPhone Air in September, has sparked speculation. Many believe that the engineering behind the Air might serve as groundwork for a future foldable device, capitalizing on its internal design elements.
iPhone Fold History
Rumors have long suggested that Apple is developing a book-style foldable akin to the Galaxy Z Fold 7. Back in 2017, discussions about a foldable iPhone anticipated a launch by 2020, which never materialized. Analysts and insiders have since pushed the expected release date further down the line. A recent patent granted in July 2024 points to Apple’s ongoing investment in this technology.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has projected that an Apple foldable could launch by the end of 2026, featuring a 7.8-inch crease-free inner display and a 5.5-inch outer screen. The anticipated price range is $2,000 to $2,500, but projected shipments of 3 to 5 million devices reflect strong consumer interest despite current sluggish sales in the foldable market.
The ongoing challenge remains addressing the crease often found in foldable displays. Although the latest iterations from Samsung show some improvement, they still don’t achieve crease-free perfection. Reports from mid-2024 by TrendForce indicate that Apple may delay its foldable plans until 2027 due to persistent display issues.
iPhone 2026 Lineup
While it’s uncertain what Apple will unveil during its traditional September release window, betting on the iPhone 18 series seems safe. Speculation also suggests the potential introduction of an iPhone Air 2, but details remain scarce. More concrete evidence leans toward an iPhone Fold, with conflicting reports suggesting it could arrive as soon as 2026.
If the iPhone Fold does debut, there’s buzz around a clamshell model being prioritized. Recent rumors indicated Apple has shifted its focus toward this clamshell design while continuing to explore the book-style foldable route.
iPhone Fold Specifications
At this stage, there are no confirmed specifications for the iPhone Fold since Apple has yet to officially acknowledge its existence. However, industry insiders predict it will house the latest A-series chip along with sufficient RAM to handle multiple displays effectively.
Kuo’s forecasts include a 5.5-inch exterior display and a 7.8-inch interior display, with a thickness of 9-9.5 mm when folded and 4.5-4.8 mm when opened. Expect dual rear cameras and an integrated front-facing camera, whether folded or unfolded. The foldable might utilize high-density battery cells, akin to those in the iPhone Air, but might forego Face ID due to space constraints, opting instead for Touch ID.
iPhone Fold Release Date
With no official confirmation from Apple, the anticipated release of the iPhone Fold could range from late 2026 to early 2027. The recent trend of releasing the iPhone Air alongside the recent iPhone series might suggest a similar strategy for a foldable variant.
Given Apple’s history of staggered phone launches, it’s plausible that the iPhone Fold could come at the same time as the iPhone 18 series. Some analysts even speculate a strategic delay for the iPhone 18 to make room for this foldable evolution.
What Apple’s New Patent Says About the iPhone Flip
A newly granted patent confirms Apple is actively developing a foldable phone. This 22-page document titled “Electronic Devices With Durable Folding Displays” reveals that Apple is exploring various design options, including a durable hinge system designed to protect the display during impacts.
This patent suggests Apple is serious about foldable technologies, but it provides few details about the potential aesthetics of an iPhone Flip. The documentation indicates a desire for a sleek and flexible design, capable of partially folding to protect the internal display when dropped.
Two Foldable iPhone Flips?
Recent reports suggest Apple is exploring two variations of a foldable iPhone: one in a book-style format and another in a clamshell format. The company continues to strive for a design that meets high expectations for thinness and functionality while ensuring external displays are usable even when the device is folded.
Development had previously stalled to focus on a foldable iPad, which could have influenced design choices for a potential iPhone Flip. However, Apple remains on the cutting edge, seeking to minimize creases and enhance durability across all its devices.
Release Date: The iPhone Flip Could Launch in 2027
Kuo’s latest assessments indicate that production for a folding device could kick off in 2026, with some models possibly launching that year. As discussions around design elements continue, there’s a growing belief that Apple might release both a book-style and a clamshell model, but timelines for each remain fluid.
The prospect of a foldable iPhone has persisted in tech circles for years. While many projected release dates have come and gone, the consistent stream of patents and R&D efforts signals Apple’s deep investment in foldable technology.
Design: What Will the Foldable iPhone Look Like?
There’s speculation that Apple has developed a working prototype, reflecting traditional fold-out designs. Analysts predict it will feature an integrated display with a hidden hinge, distinguishing it from models like Microsoft’s Surface Duo.
Kuo’s projections also include plans for vibrant color options, reminiscent of Apple’s recent product lines, aiming to attract a wide audience. Promising technological advancements could elevate user experience as Apple navigates the foldable landscape.
Roadblocks: What Still Stands in Apple’s Way?
Apple has been learning from existing foldable phones, making strides in overcoming issues such as display creases. Collaborations with Corning and LG for flexible OLED panels are critical as the company seeks to create a foldable device that lives up to Apple’s standards.
Cost: Foldable Phones Don’t Come Cheap
Pricing will be another challenge for Apple. While Samsung has produced more affordable options like the Motorola Razr, most flagship foldables are priced between $2,000 and $2,500. Analysts argue that a foldable iPhone priced competitively could generate significant interest, but there’s no guarantee it would appeal to current iPhone users without a compelling reason.
The interest in foldable devices remains high, suggesting that if Apple delivers a compelling product, it might just change the foldable landscape significantly.