Apple is poised to bring a significant innovation to the market this year. The tech giant from Cupertino is gearing up to step into the realm of foldable smartphones with the much-anticipated foldable iPhone. Speculations suggest that the iPhone Fold could mark one of the most substantial design transformations in iPhone history, dating back to the initial release of the iPhone in 2007. However, online discussions hint that Apple might be encountering challenges in the production process of the iPhone Fold.
A report by Nikkei Asia suggested that Apple was facing manufacturing obstacles related to the foldable iPhone, potentially causing a delay in shipments of a few months, pushing the sales commencement to possibly 2027. Nonetheless, a conflicting report from Bloomberg has emerged, indicating that the foldable iPhone remains on track for a launch as per Apple’s regular timeline. Below are the key details revealed.
As per the report, the debut of the foldable iPhone is expected to coincide with the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max during Apple’s fall event in 2026. The event is anticipated to take place in September, though the exact date remains uncertain.
Contrary to earlier speculations, the iPhone Fold is anticipated to be available for purchase alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models, likely within a week post-launch. However, the report does mention that initial supplies for the foldable device might be limited.
According to leaks from tipster Instant Digital on Weibo, Apple has initiated trial production for the iPhone Fold, with manufacturing reportedly taking place at the facilities of Taiwanese manufacturing giant Foxconn, known for producing iPhones and having operations in India.
The foldable iPhone is projected to feature a 5.5-inch outer display and a larger 7.8-inch inner screen when unfolded, resembling an aspect ratio akin to an iPad. Both screens are expected to be high-refresh rate AMOLED panels. To maintain a sleek profile, Apple may opt for a side-mounted Touch ID sensor over Face ID. The device is likely to sport punch-hole selfie cameras on both screens and a durable Liquid Metal hinge.
The iPhone Fold is anticipated to run on the upcoming A20 Pro chipset, promising significant performance enhancements compared to the A19 Pro chipset seen in the iPhone 17 Pro. The rear camera setup may comprise a dual configuration, possibly consisting of a 48-megapixel primary sensor, a 48-megapixel ultrawide lens, and one selfie camera on each screen.
While exact pricing details for the iPhone Fold remain scarce, reports suggest that the foldable device could come with a premium price tag, estimated around $2,400 (approximately Rs 2,22,000) in the US. For reference, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is priced at Rs 1,74,999 in India.