Foldable smartphones have been with us for quite a while now. The likes of Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, Google etc. have already taken the lead for some years now. Apple, a top player in the smartphone industry decided to stay behind in this race without information on when it would introduce its first foldable device. There have been several rumors regarding a foldable iPhone for some years now. However, none of these rumors turned out true.
A new rumor has surfaced online regarding Apple’s first foldable smartphone. This time, it could finally come to fruition, considering the source of the new. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple has already begun the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn. Mass production of the foldable iPhone is set to begin in late 2026.
Design and Display: A Book-Style Foldable
We have come across many concept designs that suggest the foldable iPhone be a clamshell design like the Galaxy Z Flip. However, the latest developments say otherwise. Apple’s first foldable is tipped to be a book-style fold like the Galaxy Z Fold. This tablet-like design choice would allow a larger inner display when unfolded.
One of the most exciting aspects of Apple’s foldable device is its “virtually crease-free” display. Reports suggest that the foldable iPhone will feature advanced display technology, making the crease almost invisible to the human eye. This would give Apple an edge over existing foldable phones, which often struggle with noticeable creases.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Performance
Apple’s foldable iPhone will benefit from advancements in battery, modem, and chipset technology developed for the upcoming iPhone 17 Air. The device is expected to feature:
- A powerful Apple Silicon chip for superior performance.
- Longer battery life optimized for foldable displays.
- Improved durability to withstand frequent folding.
Production Timeline and Availability
Currently, the foldable iPhone is in its early development phase at Foxconn. We expect mass production to begin in the second half of 2026. This could also mean that the official launch of the foldable iPhone would be around the end of 2026.
Premium Pricing: Apple’s Most Expensive iPhone Yet?
Apple’s foldable iPhone is expected to start at around $2,000 and could go up to $2,500, making it the most expensive iPhone ever. Barclays analysts predict a $2,300 starting price in the U.S. This will make it a luxury device aimed at early adopters and premium buyers.
Being Apple’s first-ever foldable smartphone, would you buy it for that price? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section.
Source: Giz China
