Apple Foldable iPhone: Apple’s Bold Entry into Foldable Market Confirmed for 2026
The much-anticipated Apple foldable iPhone is officially on the horizon, with industry expert Ming-Chi Kuo confirming its arrival by 2026. According to Kuo, Apple is gearing up to commence production of its first foldable iPhone in late Q3 or early Q4 of 2025, signaling a major shift in the tech giant’s mobile device roadmap.
Kuo, a well-regarded Apple analyst, revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that Foxconn will lead the assembly operations. While key component details—especially regarding the hinge—remain under development, the foldable iPhone’s entry appears strategically timed to disrupt the growing foldable smartphone segment currently dominated by Samsung.
Apple Foldable iPhone Design: Book-Style Crease-Free Display Expected
The upcoming Apple foldable iPhone design is said to adopt a “book-style” folding mechanism, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold lineup. Departing from the clamshell designs seen in other foldables, this approach aligns with Apple’s longstanding focus on productivity and premium design aesthetics.
One of the standout features is a 7.8-inch internal display that aims to be entirely crease-free, a challenge that many foldable phone manufacturers have struggled with. If achieved, this would place Apple at the forefront of foldable screen innovation. The external display is expected to measure 5.5 inches, making it compact and practical for everyday use without unfolding.
Samsung Display is reportedly the panel supplier, with plans to produce 7–8 million foldable screens annually in anticipation of Apple’s large-scale demand. However, considering limited production in 2026, shipments will likely be below this capacity.
Apple Foldable iPhone Specs: Lightweight Titanium, Thin Profile, and Touch ID
In terms of materials and specifications, the Apple foldable iPhone will sport a titanium alloy chassis, providing both strength and a lightweight feel. The device will be ultra-slim at under 5mm when unfolded and between 9mm to 9.5mm when folded, establishing a new benchmark in sleek foldable phone design.
Interestingly, due to internal space limitations, Apple might opt for a side-mounted Touch ID sensor instead of its traditional Face ID system. The device will likely include a dual-camera setup, although exact camera specs remain under wraps.
Apple Foldable iPhone Launch Timeline: When Will It Be Available?
Apple is expected to officially begin mass production of its foldable iPhone in the second half of 2026. Initial assembly will likely start as early as Q3 or Q4 2025, offering ample time to refine key components and meet expected quality standards.
Kuo notes that initial shipments in 2026 may range from 3 to 5 million units. However, Apple has reportedly ordered 15 to 20 million foldable devices, with distribution planned over a two to three-year product cycle. This phased approach indicates that Apple is cautiously optimistic, allowing room to scale based on market response.
Apple Foldable iPhone Price: Premium Tag of $2,000 or More Expected
As with most Apple products, premium features come with a premium price. Current market rumors suggest the Apple foldable iPhone price will start between $2,000 and $2,500, or approximately ₹1.73 to ₹2.16 lakh in India. This pricing aligns with Apple’s flagship positioning and reflects the significant R&D and engineering invested in the foldable device.
This pricing also implies Apple is targeting a niche yet lucrative segment of tech-savvy early adopters willing to pay top dollar for cutting-edge innovation.
Conclusion: Apple Foldable iPhone Could Redefine the Foldable Market in 2026
The Apple foldable iPhone is shaping up to be one of the most exciting tech launches in the coming years. With a unique crease-free design, titanium body, and book-style folding, Apple is once again aiming to set new standards in mobile innovation. While full specifications and features are still under wraps, current leaks and predictions suggest a powerful, elegant, and high-performance foldable device.
As 2026 approaches, both Apple fans and industry watchers will be keenly observing how Apple positions itself in the foldable phone market—and whether it can replicate the success it achieved with the iPhone in this new category.