With the launch of Royole FlexPai 1, the first foldable phone came into existence. Ever since there has been a lot of progress in foldable phone making. Quite uncommon but Apple was not into this big game really. However, the latest rumors suggest that the long-anticipated foldable iPhone might hit the market as early as 2026. In this article, we will discuss the specifications and rumors about Apple’s foldable phone.
Foldable iPhone Overview
Apple entering the foldable game is a bit like a latecomer showing up at the party, everyone’s been waiting for them to arrive. Let’s wait for one more minute, alright? Oh I mean one year!
Not the first time!
While Apple wasn’t quick to jump on the foldable trend, the company has been quietly laying the groundwork behind the scenes. The first whispers of an actual Apple foldable device started back in 2021, with rumors suggesting a launch in 2023. But here we are in 2025, and it looks like the debut may finally be happening in 2026. The wait could soon be over, as the buzz around Apple’s foldable iPhone is getting louder by the day. It’s not just the iPhone that’s rumored to fold, Apple is reportedly working on two foldable devices: a clamshell-style iPhone and a gigantic 20-inch foldable iPad. But let’s be honest, the iPhone is likely to hit shelves first.
Apple’s foldable journey
For years, Apple has been dropping patents like breadcrumbs leading to foldable devices. Their first patent for a foldable phone emerged almost eight years ago, but since then, Apple’s foldable progress has been a slow burn. Now, though, a recent leak from Digital Chat Station on Weibo suggests that Apple’s serious testing of a foldable iPhone prototype might finally bring us closer to the real thing. The company might’ve taken its sweet time, but it seems like the foldable iPhone is on the horizon.
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Specifications
According to leaks, Apple’s first foldable iPhone will likely sport a compact outer screen paired with a moderately sized inner display. If the rumors hold true, this could make Apple’s foldable phone one of the smallest in its category. The prototype being tested is said to feature a 5.49-inch outer display and a 7.74-inch inner screen. However, these specs are still not confirmed, as Apple is probably testing several prototypes before committing to the final design.
A new contender
Once Apple steps into the foldable world, analysts predict the market could experience a 30% growth surge, with sustained annual growth of around 20%. If executed well, Apple’s foldable iPhone could change the game entirely, pushing foldable into a new era and causing some serious headaches for the competition. If the rumored screen sizes are accurate, this foldable iPhone would be notably smaller than the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, both of which sport larger cover and inner screens. In fact, it would likely compete head-to-head with the Oppo Find N2, which offers a 5.54-inch cover display and a 7.1-inch internal screen.
When will it arrive?
While the foldable iPhone might be looking at a 2026 launch, Apple’s final product could take longer to hit the market. For now, it’s best to hold our horses and wait for the official word from Apple. The anticipation is real, but only time will tell when we’ll actually see this long-awaited device come to life. Until then, we’ll keep our eyes peeled for any more leaks or announcements.
- Meanwhile, watch our I tested Galaxy Z Fold 6 & Z Flip 6 in Nepal:
