Apple’s Foldable iPhone: What We Know So Far

Apple has been frequently speculated to be developing a foldable iPhone, commonly referred to as the iPhone Fold. While rivals like Samsung have ventured into foldable smartphones with models such as the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip, Apple has yet to make any public statements on the matter. Nonetheless, leaks and industry conjectures indicate that a foldable iPhone is indeed under construction.

In this piece, we will delve into the most recent rumors, possible launch dates, anticipated features, and how Apple may address the hurdles associated with foldable display technology.

Anticipated Release Date of the iPhone Fold

When Might Apple Introduce Its First Foldable iPhone?

Apple has not provided an official release date for the iPhone Fold; however, industry pundits and informants have made various projections.

• In 2021, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo speculated that Apple’s foldable iPhone could make its debut by 2024, a forecast considered to be overly ambitious.
• More current reports have suggested that the iPhone Fold could be revealed as late as 2027, with some sources estimating a late 2026 release that may be delayed due to production issues.
• A February 2025 leak hinted that Apple might start production in early 2026, reinforcing the idea of a 2027 launch.
• Conversely, South Korean media outlet ETNews proposed that production could commence in the second half of 2025, with a launch aimed for late 2026.

While nothing has been officially confirmed, the general agreement is that Apple is still several years away from releasing a foldable iPhone.

The iPhone Fold’s Display Technology

What Type of Screen Will the iPhone Fold Have?

The main allure of a foldable iPhone would be its flexible display, enabling users to unfold it into a larger screen for improved multitasking, gaming, and media viewing.

Reports indicate that Apple has been cooperating with LG Display and Samsung Display to create hybrid OLED panels. These panels would incorporate:

• Glass for durability, akin to current iPhone screens.
• Flexible plastic substrates for the areas that fold.

What Will Be the Size of the iPhone Fold’s Screen?

Leaks have presented inconsistent details regarding the precise dimensions of the iPhone Fold’s display:

• A February 2025 leak proposed that the unfolded screen could be comparable to two 6.1-inch iPhones placed side by side, amounting to a total size of around 12 inches—although some experts believe a more realistic size would be 7.5 to 8 inches, resembling an iPad mini.
• A different report stated that the device would include:
  • A 5.49-inch outer screen for everyday smartphone use.
  • A 7.74-inch inner screen when unfolded, creating a feel more akin to a tablet.

Will Apple Resolve the Crease Issue?

A significant hurdle with foldable screens is the noticeable crease that develops at the folding point over time. Apple seems to be actively seeking solutions to reduce this problem, including:

• External display designs, in which the screen folds outward instead of inward, thus preventing a tight crease formation.
• Sophisticated hinge mechanisms, which could offer additional support at the fold.
• Stretchable display patents, although this technology might not be primed for mass production just yet.

A February 2025 ETNews report suggested that Apple’s foldable iPhone may not exhibit a visible crease, indicating innovations aimed at enhancing durability.

Could the iPhone Fold Replace the iPad Mini?

A Two-in-One Device

Considering the rumored screen dimensions, the iPhone Fold might function as both a smartphone and a compact tablet, merging the categories of iPhones and iPads.

• A book-style fold (similar to the Galaxy Z Fold) would offer a larger display when opened.
• If the unfolded screen measures 7.5 inches or more, it could operate similarly to an iPad mini.

Samsung previously speculated that Apple’s initial foldable device would be a tablet rather than a phone. While that prediction did not materialize in 2024, a foldable iPad may still be under development along with the iPhone Fold.

Hardware and Specs: What to Anticipate

Potential Specifications

While information about the hardware remains limited, a February 2025 leak indicated that the foldable iPhone could include:

• A 5,000mAh 3D-stacked battery for enhanced energy efficiency.
• A Meta Lens front camera featuring ultra-thin technology.
• Main and Ultra-Wide rear cameras akin to those found in Pro-tier iPhones.
• A slim profile, measuring 4.6mm when unfolded and 9.2mm when folded, making it thinner than the M4 iPad Pro.

Nevertheless, the reliability of these leaks is uncertain, and Apple’s final design may differ substantially.

Conclusion

Although Apple has remained reticent about the iPhone Fold, rumors and leaks indicate that a foldable iPhone is in the works and could potentially launch by 2027. The device is anticipated to feature a hybrid OLED display, an advanced hinge system, and top-tier specs.

However, Apple is known for its meticulous approach to refining new technologies, so it’s possible that the iPhone Fold may debut later than anticipated—or may not be released at all. Regardless, the foldable smartphone market is burgeoning, and Apple will eventually need to make its entrance to remain competitive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When will Apple introduce the iPhone Fold?

Current speculation suggests the iPhone Fold could be released in 2027, although some reports hint at a late 2026 launch. However, Apple has made no formal announcements.

2. What will the size of the iPhone Fold’s display be?

Leaks indicate that the unfolded display may range from 7.5 to 8 inches, similar to an iPad mini. The outer screen could be 5.49 inches for everyday smartphone usage.

3. Will the iPhone Fold have a crease in the display?

Apple is reportedly developing technology to eliminate creases, potentially using hybrid OLED panels and advanced hinge systems.

4. Could the iPhone Fold replace the iPad Mini?

Possibly. With its large unfolded screen, the iPhone Fold may serve as both a smartphone and a small tablet, thereby decreasing the necessity for an iPad mini.

5. Who is manufacturing the iPhone Fold’s display?

Apple is believed to be collaborating with LG Display and Samsung Display to create hybrid OLED panels for the foldable iPhone.

6. What can we expect from the iPhone Fold’s battery life?

Leaks propose a 5,000mAh battery, but the final design may vary. Considering Apple’s emphasis on efficiency, battery life should be tailored for extended use.

7. Will the iPhone Fold have a higher price tag than regular iPhones?

Yes. Foldable smartphones usually carry significantly higher costs due to their complex display technology. Anticipate the iPhone Fold to be priced above current iPhone Pro models, potentially surpassing $2,000.

Stay tuned for more updates as we approach Apple’s official announcement! 🚀