Apple is widely expected to enter the foldable smartphone market in late 2026 with its first-ever foldable iPhone, ending years of speculation about whether the company would eventually release a device to rival Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold lineup.
Recent rumors suggest Apple’s first foldable iPhone will use a book-style design, folding horizontally like a small tablet rather than vertically like a clamshell flip phone. That would make it more comparable to the Galaxy Z Fold than devices like the Galaxy Z Flip or Motorola Razr.
The current expectation is that the foldable iPhone will feature a large internal display measuring around 7.8 inches, alongside an external display between 5.3 and 5.5 inches. That would allow the device to function like a normal iPhone when closed, while offering an iPad mini-like experience when opened.
One of the biggest rumored selling points is the display crease. Multiple reports have suggested Apple is putting a major focus on reducing or almost eliminating the crease that typically appears in the middle of foldable screens. Some rumors say the crease could be nearly invisible, though other reports are more cautious and suggest Apple may simply make it less noticeable than rival foldables.
The foldable iPhone is also rumored to be extremely thin. Reports have suggested it could measure around 4.5mm to 4.8mm when unfolded, and around 9mm to 9.5mm when folded shut. That would make it one of the thinnest devices Apple has ever released.
Because of the limited space inside the device, several reports claim Apple may drop Face ID and instead use Touch ID built into the power button. Apple previously used a side-mounted Touch ID button on several iPad models, so it would not be a completely new approach for the company.
In terms of cameras, the foldable iPhone is not expected to be as camera-focused as Apple’s Pro Max models. Most reports point to a dual-camera setup on the rear, along with front-facing cameras that work in both folded and unfolded modes.
The hinge is expected to be one of the most important parts of the device. Apple is rumored to be developing a premium hinge mechanism designed to improve durability and reduce the crease. Some reports have suggested Apple could use titanium and stainless steel in the hinge to make it stronger and thinner.
There have also been conflicting reports around the name. While many people have assumed Apple would call the device the “iPhone Fold,” more recent leaks suggest Apple may instead use the “iPhone Ultra” branding. According to Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station, Apple is said to be considering “iPhone Ultra” as the final name for the product.
The foldable iPhone is expected to be one of Apple’s most expensive products. Most rumors suggest pricing will start somewhere between $2,000 and $2,500, placing it well above the iPhone Pro Max and even above some MacBook models.
As for launch timing, the latest reports point to a release in late 2026, likely alongside the iPhone 18 lineup. Some supply chain reports have suggested Apple could unveil the device between September and December next year, though initial supply may be limited because of manufacturing complexity.