Apple is reportedly pushing forward with plans to launch its first foldable iPhone, eyeing a release in the second half of 2026.
The move comes after Samsung Display, which is expected to supply the OLED panels, reportedly resolved a long-standing issue: the crease that appears along the folding part of the screen.
The upcoming foldable iPhone is said to feature a 5.5-inch OLED cover display and a larger 7.8-inch inner display. It will adopt a book-style fold, akin to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. Apple is also focused on battery efficiency, working to improve the display driver IC components to ensure longer usage between charges.
Durability remains a top priority for Apple. To avoid the visible crease and improve the device’s resilience, Apple may utilise a liquid metal hinge made from amorphous alloy.
The company has also patented a new foldable screen design that thins the display at the folding area using chemical processing and reinforces it with a polymer layer. This aims to eliminate creasing while preserving structural integrity.
Mass production is expected to begin in the second half of 2025, with component suppliers likely to be finalized by April of that year. Apple reportedly plans to ship between 3 to 5 million units in 2026, with the potential for higher production volumes depending on market response.
In terms of price, the foldable iPhone is expected to be a premium offering, potentially surpassing the $2,000 mark. That would position it as one of Apple’s most expensive devices to date, appealing to early adopters and users looking for cutting-edge design and innovation.
With this launch, Apple will enter the foldable smartphone market later than its competitors but is expected to do so with a device that addresses many of the drawbacks seen in earlier foldables, particularly the crease issue and battery performance.
The success of this project could open the door for future foldable iPads or other hybrid Apple devices.
As competition in the foldable space heats up, all eyes will be on how Apple differentiates its offering and whether it can set a new standard for premium foldable tech.
