Apple’s First Foldable iPhone to Launch in 2026: What We Know So Far

Apple is reportedly planning to introduce its first foldable iPhone in the latter half of 2026. This move marks the company’s entry into the foldable smartphone market, competing with established players like Samsung, which is gearing up to release its seventh-generation foldable phones and a triple-fold device in 2025.

Display analyst Ross Young has projected that Apple’s entry could significantly boost the foldable smartphone market. Young estimates over 30 per cent growth in the segment by 2026, with steady 20 per cent increases in 2027 and 2028. Apple’s stronghold in the premium smartphone segment could contribute to a record year for foldable devices when its foldable iPhone debuts.

Unlike most foldables currently available, which typically feature a book-style mechanism, Apple’s foldable iPhone might adopt a clamshell design. This design, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip, allows the device to fold vertically. When unfolded, the device could offer a full-size iPhone experience, while folding it would make it compact and pocket-friendly.

Reports suggest that Apple’s first foldable iPhone might feature a display size ranging from 7.9 inches to 8.3 inches. Additionally, the company has allegedly explored other foldable screen sizes, including one comparable to the 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Pro Max and others between 8 and 9 inches.

The foldable iPhone is rumored to include a flexible OLED display designed to endure thousands of folds without damage. Apple’s innovative design may feature an almost invisible hinge, with electronics positioned behind the screen rather than split across two separate panels.

Apple’s foldable iPhone is anticipated to come equipped with a cutting-edge chipset, high-performance cameras, and a refined design. As with other iPhones, it will likely integrate seamlessly with Apple services such as iCloud, Apple Pay, and Apple Music.

Apple’s move into the foldable market pits it against Samsung, a leader in foldable technology. Samsung has been refining its foldable devices over the years and is preparing to launch advanced models, including a triple-fold design in 2025.