Apple's First Foldable Smartphone: Latest Details on Apple's Upcoming Foldable iPhone
Apple's much-anticipated foray into the world of foldable smartphones, known as the iPhone Fold, is expected to make its debut in September 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 lineup. Pricing is estimated to start around $1,999, with some predictions ranging from $1,800 up to $2,400 depending on sources and market positioning.
The foldable design is rumoured to be a book-style fold similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. The inner display is expected to be a crease-free 7.8-inches, while the outer display will measure 5.5-inches and remain fully functional when the device is folded shut. Analysts at JPMorgan project a $1,999 launch price, positioning it as Apple’s most expensive phone to date but competitive with other premium foldables.
Initial production is expected to be cautious, with around 10 million to 15 million units in the first wave, reflecting the technical complexity and high price point. UBS analyst insights suggest the bill of materials cost could be around $759, slightly lower than Samsung’s equivalent, which may allow Apple to price the phone on the lower end of the expected range ($1,800–$2,000).
As the iPhone Fold approaches, changes coming in iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 will help pave the way for the device. Apple's engineers are working hard to eliminate the possibility of a crease that forms in the middle of the display, a common problem for foldable devices.
Apple's absence in the foldable smartphone market has become more conspicuous due to the success of other brands. Samsung took the first steps in bringing foldable smartphones into the mainstream in 2016, with Motorola, Google, and OnePlus following suit. The iPhone Fold is expected to join the ranks of these devices, offering a new chapter in the smartphone industry.
[1] CNET, "Apple's first foldable iPhone could cost $1,800 to $2,400, according to analysts", 2023. [2] The Verge, "Apple's foldable iPhone won't arrive before 2025, according to display analyst Ross Young", 2022. [3] Bloomberg, "Apple's First Foldable iPhone May Have a Book-Style Design", 2022. [4] The Information, "Apple's iPhone Flip Project Has Moved Beyond the Concept Stage", 2024. [5] Business Insider, "Apple is developing a foldable iPhone with a book-style design, JPMorgan analysts say", 2023.
[1] The iPhone Fold, Apple's highly anticipated foray into foldable smartphone technology, is set to be powered by advanced artificial-intelligence systems and cutting-edge gadgets, positioned alongside the iPhone 18 lineup in September 2026.
[2] As the iPhone Fold approaches, Apple's engineers are employing artificial-intelligence to eliminate the display crease, ensuring smoother user experience and aligning with the technology trends in the industry.
