Apple’s Foldable iPhone Rumored To Be Launching in 2026

Apple is reportedly preparing to enter the foldable smartphone market, with its first foldable iPhone expected to launch in late 2026 or early 2027. According to renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the device will feature cutting-edge technology, a premium price tag, and a focus on AI-driven functionality. Here’s everything we know so far about Apple’s ambitious plans for its foldable iPhone.

The Foldable iPhone: What We Know

Design and Display

Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that Apple’s foldable iPhone will feature a 7.8-inch crease-free inner display and a 5.5-inch outer display. The device will adopt a book-style design, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series, but with Apple’s signature focus on premium materials and seamless user experience. The foldable display is expected to be crease-free, a significant improvement over current foldable devices, which often suffer from visible creases along the hinge.

The phone will reportedly measure 4.5–4.8mm in thickness when unfolded, making it one of the thinnest foldable devices on the market. Apple is expected to use a combination of stainless steel and titanium alloy for the hinge and casing, ensuring durability while maintaining a sleek design.

Price

The foldable iPhone is expected to be Apple’s most expensive smartphone yet, with a price range of $2,000–$2,500. This positions it firmly in the ultra-premium category, targeting Apple’s loyal fanbase and high-end consumers who are willing to pay a premium for cutting-edge technology.

Features

Touch ID Returns: Due to design constraints, the foldable iPhone is unlikely to feature Face ID. Instead, Apple is expected to integrate Touch ID into the side button, a move that saves internal space while maintaining biometric security.
AI-Driven Functionality: Apple is positioning the foldable iPhone as a true AI-driven smartphone, leveraging its larger screen for multitasking and AI-powered applications. For example, users could run an AI chatbot on one screen while using productivity abilities or maps on the other.
Camera Setup: The device will feature a single front-facing camera that works in both folded and unfolded states, along with a dual-lens rear camera.

Production Timeline and Market Entry

Apple is reportedly finalizing the specifications for the foldable iPhone in 2025, with mass production scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026. This timeline suggests a potential launch in late 2026 or early 2027. A second-generation foldable iPhone is already rumored to be in development, with a possible release in 2028.

Apple’s entry into the foldable market comes years after competitors like Samsung, Huawei, and Google have established themselves in the space. However, Apple’s strategy of waiting to perfect the technology could pay off, as the company aims to deliver a product that addresses the shortcomings of existing foldable devices.

Challenges and Competition

Market Competition

Apple will face stiff competition from established players in the foldable market:

Samsung: The Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series have dominated the foldable market, with Samsung leveraging years of experience to refine its designs.
Google: The Pixel Fold offers a book-style design and deep integration with Google’s software ecosystem.
Huawei and Motorola: These companies have also made significant strides in foldable technology, with innovative designs like Huawei’s Mate X series and Motorola’s Razr line.

Technical Challenges

Foldable phones are inherently more complex than traditional smartphones, with issues like hinge durability, display creases, and higher repair costs. Apple’s focus on a crease-free display and durable materials suggests that the company is addressing these challenges head-on, but it remains to be seen how the device will perform in real-world use.

Consumer Demand

While foldable phones have generated buzz, they remain a niche product due to their high price and limited use cases. Apple’s ability to create a compelling value proposition will be critical to the success of its foldable iPhone.

Why Apple Is Betting on Foldables

Apple’s decision to enter the foldable market aligns with its broader strategy of innovation and market leadership. The foldable iPhone is expected to:

Expand Apple’s Product Lineup: By offering a foldable device, Apple can cater to high-end consumers looking for the latest in smartphone technology.
Leverage AI: The larger screen and multitasking capabilities of the foldable iPhone make it an ideal platform for AI-driven applications, a key focus area for Apple.
Compete in Emerging Markets: Foldable phones are gaining traction in markets like China, where consumers are willing to pay a premium for innovative designs.

The Road Ahead

Apple’s foldable iPhone represents a significant gamble, but it also has the potential to redefine the foldable smartphone market. If Apple can deliver a device that combines cutting-edge technology, durability, and seamless user experience, it could set a new standard for foldable phones.

However, the high price tag and technical challenges mean that success is far from guaranteed. As Apple finalizes its plans, the tech world will be watching closely to see if the foldable iPhone can live up to the hype.