Apple’s first foldable iPhone is shaping up to be a serious competitor in the foldable market, featuring a 7.8-inch internal screen and a compact 5.5-inch outer display, according to new reports (link). This would mean that the iPhone Fold, or whatever it gets named, will be slightly smaller than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, which offers 8-inch internal and 6.5-inch external displays, but still firmly in the flagship foldable category.
One of the biggest highlights of Apple’s rumored foldable is its approach to durability. Reports suggest that Apple will try and eliminate the infamous crease by using a laser-drilled metal plate that evenly distributes stress. If true, this would solve one of the biggest design challenges facing foldable phones and set Apple’s device apart from competitors.
Design-wise, Apple’s foldable aims to maintain a sleek profile. When unfolded, it’s expected to measure between 4.5mm to 4.6mm in thickness—impressively slim for a foldable device—and around 9mm to 9.5mm thick when folded. These measurements make the device slightly thicker than Samsung’s Z Fold 7, but still highly portable.
Battery life appears to be another major focus. As per reports (link), the foldable iPhone could feature a dual-cell battery system with a total capacity between 5,000 to 5,500 mAh, significantly larger than current iPhone batteries to handle the demands of dual screens.
Apple reportedly plans to launch its foldable iPhone in late 2026, possibly alongside the iPhone 18. Early pricing estimates range between $1,800 and $2,300, making it Apple’s most expensive smartphone yet. The device is expected to run iOS 27, specifically optimized for multitasking and the larger foldable interface, potentially incorporating iPad-like features. Additionally, Touch ID integrated into the power button is expected instead of Face ID.