Apple is expected to launch its first foldable phone, likely called the iPhone Fold, which could be released in the second half of 2026. This is a big breakthrough when Apple officially stepped into the market that has had dominated for many years.
The iPhone Fold design is likely to be book-style, opening a 2-inch main screen, with an additional screen of about 5.5 inches - similar to the Galaxy Z Fold or Pixel Fold.
The iPhone Fold could have a breakthrough display technology that Apple is working with Samsung Display, making the screen thinner and easier to feel by integrating a live sensor into the OLED panel, reducing the thickness by up to 19,9% compared to the current folding screen.
Another notable feature is that Apple is expected to target a non-stamped display - by using new materials or improving the rides to limit common wrinkles in folding machines. The company also plans to make the body frame from titanium alloy or stainless steel to increase durability and luxury.
The iPhone Fold is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18, around September 2026, with limited initial production (10-15 million units) and a high selling price of around $1,800-2,500. This is a market exploration strategy, suitable for the high-end segment and users willing to invest in new experiences.
In terms of thinness, the iPhone Fold is said to be only about 4.8-4.9 mm thick when opened, thinner than the iPhone 17 Air (5.6 mm) but still thicker than the Galaxy Z Fold 7 (4.2 mm).
In terms of features, iPhone Fold expects to have a high-quality secondary screen, a screen-based camera, a touch ID next to the device instead of a Face ID, and a closed iOS ecosystem - a factor that Android devices will find difficult to keep up with.
With current development progress, limited supply and high prices, the iPhone Fold could be an experience-oriented product, before Apple considers expanding to a more popular folding line. This is a clear sign of Apple's new strides, but it is also a big challenge when entering a market that has fiercely competed with foldable smartphones.
