Key Highlights:
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Apple’s first foldable iPhone could debut alongside the iPhone 18 series in September 2026
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Production expected to start in Q3 or Q4 of 2025, handled by Foxconn
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Hinge design still under development; display reportedly finalized with Samsung Display
Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone may finally be on track for a 2026 launch, according to reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The device—often referred to as the iPhone Fold—is expected to debut alongside the iPhone 18 series during Apple’s annual fall event in September 2026.
Production Timeline
Kuo reports that Foxconn, Apple’s long-time manufacturing partner, is likely to begin production of the foldable iPhone between Q3 and Q4 of 2025. While timelines could shift, this indicates a clear movement toward finalizing Apple’s entry into the foldable segment.
Design & Display
One of the major challenges still being worked on is the hinge mechanism, which is central to the durability and user experience of foldable devices. Apple has yet to lock in a final design, but the display panel has reportedly been finalized, with Samsung Display tasked with supplying the foldable screens.
Samsung is said to be scaling up capacity to produce 7–8 million foldable panels annually, although only a portion of this is expected to be used in the initial production run. Apple is believed to have placed a larger order for 15–20 million foldable units, potentially spread over several years.
Expected Price & Features
Early projections suggest the foldable iPhone could be priced between $2,000 (approx. ₹1.73 lakh) and $2,500 (approx. ₹2.16 lakh)—making it a niche, ultra-premium device in Apple’s portfolio.
Based on past leaks and patent filings, the foldable iPhone might feature:
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Book-style folding design with a 7.8-inch crease-free inner display
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5.8-inch external display
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Durable titanium alloy casing
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Stainless steel-aluminium or metallic glass hinge
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Dual rear cameras and separate selfie cameras on both the cover and inner screen
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Touch ID embedded in the power button
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High-density battery for extended usage
Apple has yet to confirm any official details, but if the timeline holds, we could see more concrete leaks and prototypes emerge by early 2025. Until then, the foldable iPhone remains one of the most highly anticipated innovations in Apple’s future product line-up.
