Apple's First Foldable iPhone: What We Know So Far About Its Release and Features

Apple has been rumored to be working on a foldable iPhone for years, and recent reports suggest the company is finally gearing up for a launch. However, we’re still a few years away from seeing it in the market. According to new insights from reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple’s first foldable iPhone might be released in late 2026 or early 2027.

This device is expected to borrow design cues and features from Samsung’s popular Galaxy Z Fold series, but with some unique Apple touches. In this article, we’ll break down everything we know about the foldable iPhone’s design, features, and launch timeline.

A Glimpse into the Future: What’s Expected from Apple’s Foldable iPhone

According to Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple’s foldable iPhone could begin mass production in Q4 of 2026, with a launch expected in late 2026 or early 2027. The device is expected to adopt a book-style fold, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold lineup, and may include a dual rear-camera setup and one front-facing camera. The external screen is expected to be 5.5 inches, while the internal foldable display will be around 7.8 inches. Notably, Apple’s foldable iPhone is anticipated to have no visible crease, something that sets it apart from its competitors.

The device will likely lack Face ID and instead feature a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, much like the Galaxy Z Fold series. As for pricing, the foldable iPhone is expected to cost between $2,000 and $2,500—premium pricing for a premium product. Despite the high price tag, it is expected to attract millions of consumers due to the top-tier hardware and AI-driven features.

Battery life will be a major focus, with Apple potentially using high-density batteries to ensure longevity. The foldable iPhone will also be incredibly thin, with a 9.5mm thickness when folded and a mere 4.5-4.8mm thickness when unfolded. For durability, the hinge will likely be made of stainless steel and titanium alloy, ensuring a long-lasting and robust design.

The overall hardware is expected to mirror the design philosophy Apple applies to its other devices, blending cutting-edge technology with sleek aesthetics. The foldable iPhone is expected to be a significant departure from previous iPhones, combining high-end specifications with a form factor that may redefine the future of smartphones.

What Undercode Says: Analyzing

Apple’s approach to a foldable iPhone offers an interesting insight into the future of smartphones. While the idea of foldable phones is not new—Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and Huawei’s Mate X have been paving the way for years—Apple’s entry into the market signals an important shift. However, there are a few key factors that will determine whether Apple can truly revolutionize the foldable phone industry or simply follow in Samsung’s footsteps.

Design and User Experience

Apple’s foldable iPhone will likely feature a book-style fold, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold series, which is a proven design. However, Apple is known for taking existing concepts and improving upon them. The lack of a visible crease in the foldable screen is one area where Apple could excel, as Samsung’s foldables still struggle with this issue. If Apple can perfect the foldable screen, it could offer a smoother and more refined user experience, setting it apart from current devices in the market.

Pricing and Market Appeal

A key concern with foldable phones has always been their steep price tags. The $2,000 to $2,500 price range for Apple’s foldable iPhone may seem exorbitant, but considering Apple’s loyal fan base and the device’s premium specifications, it is likely to attract a significant number of buyers. The real question is whether Apple can make foldable technology mainstream at that price point, or if it will remain a niche product like previous foldables.

Competition and Innovation

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series is undeniably the leader in the foldable smartphone market, but Apple’s entry could force the competition to step up their game. Apple has always had the ability to push the envelope when it comes to design, technology, and user experience. However, Samsung is not resting on its laurels; by the time Apple launches its foldable iPhone, we can expect Samsung to have addressed issues like the screen crease and potentially boosted battery life to over 5,000mAh. Apple’s challenge will be to match or outdo these improvements while maintaining its unique ecosystem advantages.

Long-Term Impact on the Smartphone Industry

In the grand scheme of things, Apple’s move into the foldable market could accelerate the mainstream adoption of foldable technology. While other companies have dabbled with foldables, Apple’s vast influence means that once it enters the foldable space, the rest of the market may quickly follow. This could lead to a rapid evolution in foldable phone design and functionality, with new innovations in screen technology, hinges, and battery efficiency.

Fact Checker Results:

The first foldable iPhone from Apple is expected to arrive in late 2026 or early 2027, with mass production beginning in Q4 2026.
The foldable iPhone will likely adopt a book-style design, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold series.
It is expected to be priced between $2,000 and $2,500, with an estimated shipment of 3-5 million units in 2026, and 20 million units by 2027.