Apple has stayed quiet about foldable phones for years, but that silence may finally be ending. The iPhone Fold, as it is commonly called in leaks, is now believed to be in advanced development. Several well-known analysts agree that Apple is aiming for a late 2026 launch, placing the device firmly in the premium category.
Unlike other brands that entered the foldable market early, Apple appears to be waiting until the technology meets its standards. Recent leaks suggest the company is focusing on durability, display quality, and long-term user experience rather than rushing to be first.
Likely Launch Window for iPhone Fold
Foldable iPhone rumors first appeared around 2017, but early ideas never reached production. Now, reports point to fall 2026 as the most realistic launch window. Some sources suggest the device could arrive alongside Apple’s main iPhone lineup that year.
There is still a chance Apple could delay the release to 2027. If issues arise with the hinge or screen reliability, Apple may choose to wait. This would not be unusual, as Apple has delayed products before to ensure better quality.
Rumored Design and Foldable Style
Current leaks suggest Apple has chosen a book-style foldable design instead of a flip-style phone. When unfolded, the iPhone Fold is expected to look like a compact tablet, making it useful for reading, browsing, and multitasking.
The inner display may measure around 7.7 to 7.8 inches, while the outer screen could be close to 5.5 inches. When folded, the phone may appear wider than a standard iPhone, offering a more balanced screen shape. Thickness is expected to stay slim for a foldable device.
Display Technology and Crease Control
The display is one of the biggest challenges for foldable phones. Apple is rumored to be using a new OLED panel designed to reduce visible creasing. This panel may include a metal support layer that spreads stress evenly when the screen folds.
Apple reportedly does not want to release a foldable phone unless the crease is hard to notice in normal use. If these reports are accurate, the iPhone Fold could offer a cleaner display than many existing foldable phones.
Cameras, Touch ID, and Battery
Leaks suggest the iPhone Fold may feature four cameras. This could include two rear cameras, one camera on the outer display, and one under-display camera on the inner screen. Apple is also expected to skip Face ID and use Touch ID built into the power button.
Battery capacity may range from 5,000 to 5,800mAh, making it the largest battery ever used in an iPhone. Combined with a future A-series processor, the device should deliver strong performance and good battery life.
iPhone Fold vs Other Foldable Phones
| Feature | iPhone Fold (Rumored) | Other Foldable Phones |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2026 | Already available |
| Inner Display | ~7.8 inches | 7.6–8 inches |
| Display Crease | Minimal | Noticeable |
| Security | Touch ID | Mixed methods |
| Price Range | $2,000–$2,500 | $1,600–$1,900 |
Expected Price and Final Thoughts
The iPhone Fold is expected to be Apple’s most expensive iPhone, with prices starting above $2,000. This places it closer to premium tablets and laptops than traditional smartphones.
Many details remain unconfirmed, including the final name and software features. Still, the steady flow of leaks suggests Apple is serious about foldables. If the iPhone Fold launches in 2026, it will likely reflect Apple’s usual focus on polish, reliability, and long-term value.
