Anticipation is building as the iPhone Fold may make its debut sooner than previously thought, potentially later this year. The pressing questions for consumers are whether they’re prepared for this innovative device, and if they would be willing to pay a premium price—possibly exceeding that of Samsung’s high-end Galaxy Z Fold—for Apple’s inaugural foldable phone.
Speculation surrounding the iPhone Fold has been rampant, with reports suggesting that Apple has been developing the device for several years. This year, insiders believe that Apple is finally ready to unveil it. Unlike earlier rumors of a flip design, the iPhone Fold is expected to adopt a notebook-style format.
While Apple is entering the foldable phone market later than its competitors, particularly in a fiercely competitive landscape like China, the company’s reputation could heighten expectations for this new offering.
Recent leaks have provided initial mock-ups of the expected dimensions for the iPhone Fold alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
Information regarding the iPhone Fold remains somewhat fragmented, with various sources presenting different design possibilities. Some suggest it may resemble two iPhone Airs connected, while others propose a size and shape similar to the original iPad mini. Apple is reportedly evaluating multiple designs and screen sizes, with a potential book-like configuration that folds horizontally to reveal a larger display akin to an iPad mini. Speculations also hint at a square design, featuring an outer display and camera for use when closed, coupled with a spacious inner display.
A significant concern is whether Apple can achieve a slim profile for the foldable iPhone comparable to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. Reports indicate that Apple’s design team aims for the iPhone Fold to be half the thickness of current models. Given that the iPhone Air measures 5.6mm thick, there is potential for the creation of an exceptionally slim foldable device. The iPhone Fold is expected to utilize a mix of titanium and aluminum, along with durable glass.
One of the key uncertainties surrounding the iPhone Fold is whether Apple has succeeded in eliminating the crease that typically appears in foldable displays. While not always bothersome, this crease can distract users, especially when viewing content from certain angles. With competitors like Samsung and Oppo demonstrating crease-free displays, there is hope that Apple will collaborate with a display manufacturer capable of achieving similar results.
As Apple prepares for the launch of its first foldable iPhone, it is anticipated to come with a premium price tag, likely making it the most expensive iPhone to date. The current high-end model, the iPhone 17 Pro Max, sets the benchmark, but the iPhone Fold is expected to elevate both its prestige and cost. Financial firm UBS estimates the price of the iPhone Fold could range from $1,800 to $2,000, which is competitive with existing foldable phones.
Details regarding the iPhone Fold’s specifications remain unconfirmed, as Apple has yet to acknowledge its existence. However, it is expected to be powered by the A20 Pro chip from the iPhone 18 Pro, potentially with a different core configuration. Early reports also suggest a dual-camera setup on the exterior, as opposed to three cameras, with the foldable phone featuring a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch outer display.
Previously, it was anticipated that the iPhone Fold could launch later this year, following the expected September release of the iPhone 18 Pro. However, recent comments from leaker Instant Digital on Weibo indicate that trial production has commenced at Foxconn, suggesting a timeline for mass production around July, possibly coinciding with the iPhone 18 Pro’s release. Nonetheless, a report from Nikkei warns of potential engineering challenges that may delay the foldable iPhone’s mass production and shipping schedules. Ultimately, it remains to be seen whether Apple will successfully release the iPhone Fold this year or if consumers will have to wait until early 2027.
