Apple’s Upcoming Foldable iPhone: What to Expect
iPhone foldable: In summary
- Expected release date in September 2026
- Likely to be a book-style foldable design
- Priced at $1,999
Several major tech companies like Samsung, Google, OnePlus, Motorola, and Honor have already introduced foldable devices into the market, leaving Apple as the only major manufacturer without a foldable model.
Speculations about Apple’s development of a foldable iPhone have been circulating for some time, but recent reports, including a market note to investors from JPMorgan, are starting to solidify these rumors.
Anticipated Release Date of the Foldable iPhone
In summary
- Expected release in September 2026
- Possibly launched alongside the iPhone 18 lineup
- A dedicated launch event is also a possibility
While the release of the iPhone 17 lineup is imminent, with minor upgrades expected, the spotlight is on Apple’s first foldable iPhone, unofficially known as the iPhone Fold. Although Apple has not confirmed the device’s official name, it is projected to hit the market next year.
If Apple follows its usual release schedule, the foldable iPhone could be unveiled during the annual autumn event in mid-September, alongside the new iPhone models.
Recent iPhone announcement dates include:
- iPhone 16: 9 September 2024
- iPhone 15: 12 September 2023
- iPhone 14: 7 September 2022
- iPhone 13: 14 September 2021
- iPhone 12: 13 October 2020 (delayed due to Covid)
Hence, the iPhone 17 lineup is expected to be announced on 9 September 2025, with the high-end iPhone 18 models likely following suit in 2026. The iPhone 18 and 18e are predicted for a spring 2027 release.
However, considering the unique design of the foldable iPhone, Apple may opt for a separate event for its unveiling, with some analysts speculating an earlier launch date.
Jason Cross / Foundry
Sources: The Information | GSMArena | MacRumors | Ming-Chi Kuo
Expected Price of the Foldable iPhone
In summary
- Pricing details are speculative
- Rumored price of $1,999 in the US
- International pricing remains unknown
A price tag of $1,999 has been suggested for the foldable iPhone, aligning with the starting price of the Samsung Z Fold 7 in the US. However, international pricing is yet to be disclosed.
Comparing the starting prices of the iPhone 16 models across regions reveals discrepancies between US dollars and British pounds, indicating potential pricing variations.
- iPhone 16 (128GB) – £799/$799
- iPhone 16 Plus (128GB) – £899/$899
- iPhone 16 Pro (128GB) – £999/$999
- iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) – £1,199/$1,199
Based on this trend, the UK price for the foldable iPhone could be around £1,999 if the US pricing holds true, albeit subject to currency fluctuations and tariffs.
David Price / Foundry
Sources: Ming-Chi Kuo | Instant Digital | MacRumors
Anticipated Specs and Features of the Foldable iPhone
In summary
- Expected book-style foldable design
- 7.8-inch inner display
- Utilization of LiquidMetal hinge
While details about the design and specifications of the iPhone Fold are scarce, it is anticipated to adopt a book-style foldable form factor, codenamed V68.
Early reports suggest that the device may come in black or white color options and feature five camera lenses strategically placed for versatile photography options.
Apple aims to minimize the visible crease on the unfolded screen, with rumors indicating the use of a LiquidMetal hinge for durability.
The iPhone Fold is projected to incorporate Apple’s C2 modem, slated for release alongside the iPhone 18 lineup in September.
Rumored specs for the iPhone Fold include:
- Inward-folding book-style design
- Seamless crease-free display
- Robust LiquidMetal hinge
- 7.8-inch inner display
- 5.5-inch outer display
- Titanium chassis
- Touch ID instead of Face ID
- No SIM card slot
- Dimensions of 9-9.5mm closed and 4.5-4.8mm open
Jim Martin / Foundry
Reports suggest that Samsung Display will supply the folding screens for the foldable iPhone, with dimensions comparable to current iPhones in length and width.
Sources: Macworld | MacRumors | Revegnus on X | Ming-Chi Kuo | Macwelt | Mark Gurman
These are the latest insights available regarding the foldable iPhone; stay tuned for updates as more information emerges. In the meantime, explore our top picks for the best smartphones of 2025 if you’re in the market for a new device.
