Rumours about iPhone Fold/Apple’s foldable phone have been swirling since Samsung dropped its first Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold phones. Despite the ongoing speculation, analysts knew that in classic Apple fashion the company would not release its foldable phone until everything was perfected. Many Android companies have entered the foldable market since then, including brands like Huawei, Xiaomi, and Oppo that have pushed the boundaries of foldable smartphone technology.
But it seems the wait is finally over and Apple is ready to break its silence. New information has surfaced online suggesting Apple’s foldable phone is likely to be released in 2026. Leaks suggest Apple’s main focus in this phone has been on overcoming the notorious crease of foldable phones.
In this article, we’ll cover everything we know so far about the long-awaited iPhone Fold, including its features, release date, and price.
Apple Foldable Phone Specs: What to Expect from the iPhone Fold
Rumours suggest that the iPhone Fold will resemble the form factor of the Z Fold instead of the Z Flip. According to Weibo-based leaker Digital Chat Station, foldable iPhone will have a 5.49-inch screen on the outside (think iPhone 13 mini). When unfolded, the phone will have a massive screen estate of 7.74 inches, making it similar to the iPad mini.
Multiple rumours emerged back in 2022 about Apple working with LG and Samsung to develop a bending screen. Reportedly the goal was to develop a hybrid OLED panel which would overcome the crease issue synonymous with foldable smartphones.
A February 2025 report by ETNews also suggests that eliminating the crease remains Apple’s primary focus in the foldable iPhone. Different suppliers for hinges and other components are being explored for this purpose. Final selection of the supplier is expected by the end of April.
There are also reports suggesting Apple’s efforts to enhance the durability of the foldable iPhone. The Ceramic Shield, first introduced in the iPhone 12 series, is likely to be used in the foldable phone’s display as well.
iPhone Fold Release Date: When Will Apple’s Foldable iPhone Launch?
A foldable Apple phone has been on the wishlist of many people for quite some time now. 2026 might be the year this dream comes true. Rumours suggest that the foldable iPhone is most likely to come out by the end of 2026. If the timeline is extended because of Apple’s lengthy production cycle that takes around 2 years, the release can be delayed till early 2027. These rumours are backed by The Wall Street Journal’s deliberations as well.
iPhone Fold Price: How Much Will Apple’s Foldable Phone Cost?
Despite the abundance of rumours regarding Apple’s foldable phone, there is a surprising lack of speculation about its price range. But based on the reported features, an estimated guess can be made.
If Apple does indeed follow the form factor of the Galaxy Z Fold, a similarly hefty price tag can be expected. The first generation Z Fold cost $1980 and the current Z Fold 6 retails for $1900. With Apple’s efforts to eliminate the crease, it is likely the cost of production will be higher for Apple. Therefore, it is possible that the iPhone Fold will be at or over the $2000 price mark.
Top Competitors for Apple in the Foldable Smartphone Market:
Galaxy Z Fold 6
The Z Fold series has come a long way since the launch of its first bulky and awkward model. The Z Fold 6 is sleek and light yet jam-packed with the highest-end specs that Samsung has to offer. The crease has been noticeably reduced with the new hinge design.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has overcome all the problems that had held back its predecessor for making a mark on the foldable smartphone market. The form factor of the closed phone resembles a regular clamshell device, even more so than Samsung’s.
Motorola Razr 2024
The phone offers a number of premium features, in addition to its large outer-screen and respectable battery. However, the devices gets its competitive edge from its affordable price tag of $699.Safe to say that it’s the best value for money phone in the foldable market.
OnePlus Open
OnePlus truly knocked the ball out of the park with its very first attempt at a foldable phone. From its sleek, light, and thin form factor to its impressive battery life and capable camera system, the device manages to deliver on multiple fronts without breaking the bank. It’s clear that OnePlus has entered the foldable phone market with a bang, offering a product that not only competes with established players but also sets a new standard for what consumers can expect in this category.
Bottom Line
Ultimately, all these reports are based on speculations of leakers and analysts. Nothing has been confirmed so far by the company itself about the features or release date of Apple’s foldable phone. Everything is conjecture at this point. Until an official announcement is made about Apple’s first foldable iPhone, we can only wait and watch.
