Apple’s much-anticipated foldable iPhone kicks up huge buzz: What we know so far

Rumours and leaks paint an increasingly clear picture of what could be the company’s next major innovation in smartphones. 

Apple has historically taken a cautious approach to new tech, waiting for them to mature before entering the market.

Macrumors, however, reported that the foldable iPhone now appears poised for a 2026 launch, with production reportedly starting in late 2025.

Apple Club has leaked the products "roadmap" of the Cupertino, California-based tech giant, which includes the foldable iPhone.

What we know so far:

Design and display

The foldable iPhone is expected to adopt a book-style (clamshell) design, unfolding to reveal a large, flexible OLED display measuring around 7.8 inches. 

This size would put it in direct competition with devices like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series and Google’s Pixel Fold, which offer similar screen real estate when opened, as per Tom’s Guide.

Notably, Samsung Display is said to be the supplier of the foldable screen – rumoured to be crease-free, addressing one of the biggest durability and aesthetic challenges faced by current foldables.

When folded, the device might feature a secondary digital cover display roughly 5.5 inches in size.

This could provide quick access to notifications and apps without unfolding the phone.

The thickness of the device is expected to be impressively slim, around 9 to 9.5mm folded, and about half that when opened, which would be competitive with existing flagship phones, Tom’s Guide speculated.

Performance and features

On the performance front, rumours suggest Apple could equip the foldable iPhone with a high-end M1 chip, known for its power efficiency and processing muscle, along with ProMotion technology for smoother scrolling and enhanced responsiveness, according to Vertu. 

This would ensure the foldable iPhone delivers a premium user experience consistent with Apple’s reputation.

Software-wise, Apple is reportedly developing custom multitasking features and adaptable app layouts to fully leverage the foldable form factor. 

This could make the device highly attractive for productivity, enabling users to run multiple apps side-by-side with ease, Vertu added.

Price and market position

The foldable iPhone is expected to carry a premium price tag, with some leaks suggesting a range between $2,100 and $2,300, positioning it at the higher end of the foldable market, Tom’s Guide reports. 

This pricing reflects Apple’s focus on quality materials, durability, and the integration of cutting-edge technology.

Why now? Apple’s strategy

Apple’s entry into the foldable market comes after years of waiting for the technology to mature. Competitors like Samsung and Huawei have pioneered foldables but have faced challenges with durability, creasing, and limited mainstream adoption.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo told CNBC that Apple’s cautious approach is designed to overcome these issues and deliver a device that redefines foldable usability.

Despite foldables representing a small fraction of total smartphone sales (around 1.5% to 3% market share), Apple’s involvement could significantly boost consumer interest and push the market forward.

Production and launch timeline

Reports indicate that assembly of the foldable iPhone will begin in late Q3 or early Q4 of 2025, with initial shipments projected between 3 to 5 million units, Macrumors added. 

The device is likely to debut alongside the iPhone 18 lineup in late 2026, although some Reddit group speculation still points to a possible 2027 release.

Game changer or vapourware?

The foldable iPhone may shape up to be a game-changer in the smartphone industry.

If it does happen, it could merge Apple’s hallmark design and performance with the versatility of foldable displays. 

With a focus on durability, premium hardware, and innovative software, Apple aims to set new standards for foldable devices. 

While the wait continues, the growing stream of credible leaks and analyst insights suggests that 2026 will be the year Apple finally folds into this emerging segment.

But it could also turn out to be nothing more than vapour.