According to leaked sources, Apple's manufacturing partner Foxconn has started the trial production phase of the iPhone Fold model. This is a pre-production step before mass production, expected to start in July if no errors occur during testing.
Currently, Apple is still closely following the plan to launch a folding screen iPhone in 2026. However, the device is unlikely to appear in the same September period as usual.
Some sources say that the product may be on shelves late, even in December.
In terms of design, iPhone Fold is predicted to have a screen of about 5.5 inches when folded and expanded to 7.8 inches when opened. Apple chose a 4:3 ratio, similar to the iPad, with a wider and lower size than many folding smartphones today.
Notably, the device may be only 4.5mm thin when opened, forcing Apple to trade off some features. The device will not have a three-lens camera cluster, meaning a lack of telephoto lens. In addition, Face ID technology is also removed due to insufficient space for the sensor. Instead, Apple is likely to integrate Touch ID into the power button next to it, similar to the iPad.
Another highlight is that Apple is said to have significantly improved the folding style, making the folding part almost "invisible" when the phone is turned on.
If the roadmap is correct, iPhone Fold will mark an important step for Apple in the foldable device race. However, the changes in features show that the company is still prioritizing completing the design before optimizing the comprehensive experience.