Key Highlights
- Rumors suggest Apple could launch its first foldable iPhone in late 2026.
- The device is expected to feature a book-style design similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series.
- Apple may use Liquidmetal for the hinge and rely on Samsung Display for the display technology.
- The rumored price could be around $2,000 to $2,500 in the US market.
Apple’s Foldable iPhone: The Rumored Reality
MobileSmartphones has been tracking all of the rumors about Apple’s foldable phone, known as the iPhone Fold. After years of speculation, the outlines are starting to come into focus.
The timeline for the launch is set in late 2026, likely alongside the iPhone 18 lineup. Analysts and leakers now agree that Apple is targeting this window for its first foldable phone. However, given Apple’s history of delaying products that it feels aren’t ready, a slip into 2027 remains a real possibility.
Design: A Book-Style Approach
The iPhone Fold is expected to follow the book-style design similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. When unfolded, the device will resemble a small tablet like the iPad mini (8.3 inches). Based on CAD leaks and alleged case-maker molds, the iPhone Fold may be slightly smaller with an internal display measuring around 7.7 to 7.8 inches.
When closed, it should function like a conventional smartphone, with an outer display in the 5.5-inch range. The device is predicted to have a squarer footprint when folded, better matching the aspect ratio of the inner display, which could help explain its rumored dimensions.
Display and Crease Question
The display technology is arguably the biggest challenge for any foldable phone. Apple appears to be relying on Samsung Display as its primary supplier. Recent reports suggest that the panel combines a flexible OLED with a laser-drilled metal support plate that disperses stress when folding, aiming for a nearly invisible crease.
This would mark a notable improvement over current foldables, which still show visible creasing under certain lighting conditions. If Apple does use this technology, it could position the iPhone Fold as a leader in display quality among foldable smartphones.
Cameras and Biometrics
Apple is reportedly planning a four-camera setup on the device. This may include two rear cameras (main and ultra-wide, both rumored at 48MP), one punch-hole camera on the outer display, and one under-display camera on the inner screen. Several sources claim Apple will avoid Face ID entirely on the iPhone Fold, instead relying on Touch ID built into the power button.
This would allow Apple to keep both displays free of notches or Dynamic Island cutouts, offering a cleaner user interface. Under-display camera technology has historically produced lower image quality, but a rumored 24MP sensor could be a significant step up compared to existing foldables, which typically use much lower-resolution sensors.
Hinge and Materials
The hinge is another area where Apple may diverge from competitors. Multiple reports claim Apple will use Liquidmetal for the hinge, known historically as “liquid metal” or “Liquid Metal.” This material is said to be stronger and more resistant to deformation than titanium while remaining relatively lightweight.
Leaks from Jon Prosser also reference a metal plate beneath the display that works in tandem with the hinge to minimize creasing. If accurate, this could help improve long-term durability and reduce wear on the foldable display.
Battery and Components
The iPhone Fold’s battery life is expected to be another differentiator. According to Ming-Chi Kuo and multiple Asian supply-chain reports, Apple is testing high-density battery cells in the 5,000 to 5,800mAh range, making it the largest battery ever used in an iPhone.
The device is also expected to use a future A-series chip and Apple’s in-house modem. The high price point, estimated between $2,000 and $2,500 in the US market, positions the iPhone Fold well above the iPhone Pro Max and closer to Apple’s high-end Macs and iPads.
Despite years of rumors, there is still plenty that remains unclear.
Apple hasn’t confirmed the name “iPhone Fold,” final dimensions, software features or how iOS would adapt to a folding form factor. Durability, repairability, and long-term reliability are also open questions. For now, the safest assumption is that Apple is taking its time and that many of these details could still change before launch.
