Apple’s First Foldable iPhone Takes Shape:
Leaks Hint at a Major Smartphone Shift
Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone is finally starting to look real. New leaks and supply-chain reports suggest the company is preparing its most radical iPhone redesign yet — one that could redefine how users interact with smartphones. If the reports are accurate, Apple is targeting a September 2026 launch, marking what could be the biggest evolution of the iPhone since its original debut.
Dual Displays That Change the Game
According to multiple industry sources, Apple’s foldable iPhone will feature a dual-display setup. The outer screen is expected to measure around 5.3 to 5.5 inches, while the inner foldable display could span 7.7 to 7.8 inches when fully opened.
This design strikes a balance between portability and productivity. When folded, the phone remains compact enough for one-handed use — ideal for calls, messaging, and quick tasks. When unfolded, it transforms into a tablet-like device, offering a larger canvas for watching videos, multitasking, gaming, or working on documents.
Industry observers believe this approach directly addresses one of the biggest compromises in mobile design: choosing between screen size and pocketability.
A Push for Crease-Free Foldable Displays
One of Apple’s biggest challenges appears to be eliminating the visible crease, a common issue in current foldable phones. Reports indicate Apple is using advanced display materials and reinforced glass supplied by companies like Corning and SCHOTT.
If Apple succeeds in delivering a near crease-free display, it could remove the main visual drawback that has kept many consumers away from foldable smartphones. This alone could push foldables closer to mainstream adoption.
Advanced Camera Setup Across Two Screens
Camera technology is another area where Apple seems unwilling to compromise. Leaks suggest the foldable iPhone will feature dual 48-megapixel rear cameras, keeping it in line with Apple’s high-end imaging standards.
The outer display is expected to include a hole-punch camera, possibly integrated with Dynamic Island-style software features. This ensures users can take selfies or join video calls without unfolding the device.
More interestingly, the inner display may include an under-panel camera that stays hidden when not in use. Some reports hint at a resolution as high as 24 megapixels, which would be a major leap over current under-display camera technology.
This setup could allow users to film with rear cameras while previewing shots on the large internal screen — a major advantage for creators and professionals.
Touch ID Makes a Comeback
In a surprising move, Apple is expected to ditch Face ID on its foldable iPhone and bring back Touch ID, likely integrated into a side-mounted power button.
The reason is practical rather than nostalgic. Face ID hardware and under-display fingerprint sensors take up valuable internal space — something Apple is trying to minimize in a thin, foldable design. Touch ID also works reliably whether the phone is folded or unfolded, making it a better fit for this form factor.
Built for Durability, Not Just Style
Durability appears to be a major focus. Sources describe the prototype as having a strong, reinforced hinge designed to withstand years of folding. Apple is reportedly prioritizing long-term reliability over experimental features, aiming to avoid the durability concerns that affected early foldable phones.
Premium Price, Limited Availability
As expected, Apple’s foldable iPhone won’t come cheap. Analysts estimate a starting price of $2,000, with some projections going as high as $2,500 depending on storage and configuration.
Shipment estimates range between 3 to 5 million units, suggesting Apple is treating this as a premium flagship rather than a mass-market device. This strategy mirrors Apple’s past launches, where new categories were introduced cautiously before scaling up.
Competing With — and Redefining — Foldables
The device is expected to follow a book-style fold, placing it in direct competition with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. However, Apple’s emphasis on thinness, durability, and display quality suggests it aims not just to compete, but to set a new standard.
Rather than launching it as a separate product line, Apple is expected to position the foldable as the top-tier iPhone, fully integrated into the existing iPhone ecosystem.
What This Means for the Future of iPhones
A foldable iPhone could blur the line between smartphones and tablets. It may reduce the need for smaller iPads while expanding what users expect from an iPhone. For developers, it creates strong incentives to optimize apps for foldable displays within Apple’s massive user base.
If Apple delivers on its promises — crease-free screens, reliable hardware, and smooth software — foldable phones may finally move from niche gadgets to everyday essentials.
Final Takeaway
Apple’s foldable iPhone appears to be a carefully planned gamble. Instead of rushing to market, Apple seems focused on fixing the core problems that have held foldables back: durability issues, visible creases, and awkward user experiences.
With a premium price and ambitious engineering goals, this could become Apple’s most exclusive iPhone yet. But if the execution matches the vision, the foldable iPhone may mark the moment foldable smartphones truly go mainstream.
