Unfolding the Future: Whispers Suggest Apple's Foldable iPhone in the Offing for 2026
Preparations for the release of a foldable iPhone are reportedly underway, with a planned launch in the year 2026.
Get ready to witness a game-changer! The top-notch Apple insider anticipates the preliminary stages of a foldable iPhone commencing as soon as this year, with the revolutionary device hitting the market in 2026. The analyst hints at two major manufacturers joining forces for this groundbreaking project, but many questions are yet to be answered.
Unraveling the Mystery
Samsung's been leading the pack with foldable Android smartphones for a few years, preparing to unveil the seventh generation of its Galaxy Z Fold shortly. Now, it looks like Apple might be following suit, with reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo hinting that Foxconn could kickstart the project as early as 2025.
A Plethora of Unanswered Questions
According to Kuo's predictions, preparations are expected to begin by the end of the third or the beginning of the fourth quarter of 2025. However, mass production won't commence until the second half of next year, as per the analyst.
The Display – A Revealing Clue
One component that's already been finalized is the display, Kuo says. Given his predictions based on supply chain insights, the use of Samsung Display's panels doesn't come as a surprise. The supplier is set to develop an annual production capacity of seven to eight million displays for the foldable iPhone. Even though the actual production in 2026 might not reach that full capacity due to its anticipated short duration, it promises an exciting future for Apple in the realm of foldables.
Expect a Premium Tag
Based on Kuo's information, Apple has ordered approximately 15 to 20 million foldable iPhones, a quantity likely reflecting the demand over the device's entire lifecycle rather than just the year 2026. The relatively low production numbers suggest a possible premium price tag, as rumors circulate about a price range of $2,000 to $2,500.
Innovations Ahead
All plans remain subject to change until the official project start, but Kuo anticipates features such as "a real AI-controlled phone." While Apple lags behind the competition in this area, there's hope that by late 2026, it could deliver a high-quality AI experience, similar to Google's Gemini.
Touch ID’s Return
Hardware-wise, Apple is predicted to include a fingerprint sensor (Touch ID) in the power button, considering the constraints of fitting facial recognition (Face ID) in a presumably ultra-thin chassis. The device is expected to be around 9 to 9.5 mm thick when closed, and about 4.5 to 4.8 mm when opened.
Combining Stainless Steel and Titanium Alloy
As for the design, the foldable iPhone is rumored to fold along the longitudinal axis like a Galaxy Z Fold, boasting an internal screen of around 7.8 inches and an external display of roughly 5.5 inches. The hinge is likely to be constructed using a mix of stainless steel and titanium alloy, ensuring durability and aesthetics.
In terms of power, the device should mirror the "iPhone Air"'s high-density batteries. Stay tuned for updates on the much-anticipated foldable iPhone!
The Commission has also been consulted on the following issues: gadgets, smartphones, technology. This development comes as Apple is rumored to be working on a foldable iPhone, potentially taking inspiration from the Galaxy Z Fold series, as suggested by reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
