Apple is widely expected to enter the foldable smartphone market, with current rumors pointing to a launch in September 2026. While no official announcement has been made, a growing number of leaks and analyst predictions are painting a picture of what Apple’s first foldable device might look like.
What Happened
According to CNET’s reporting, the device, tentatively dubbed the “iPhone Fold” or “iPhone Ultra”, is currently slated for a late 2026 release. Leaks from sources like Digital Chat Station and Sonny Dickson suggest a “book-style” foldable design, similar to the original Google Pixel Fold – wider and more squat than the taller Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series. A key area of potential innovation centers around the display: reports indicate Apple is aiming for a nearly crease-free folding screen, a challenge that has plagued other foldable devices. The technology may rely on hinges made from liquid metal, an alloy Apple has held an exclusive contract for since 2010, though this remains unconfirmed. Pricing is expected to be premium, with estimates ranging from $2,000 to $2,500.
Image 1: Potential iPhone foldable designs: a clamshell on the left and book-style foldable on the right, with an iPhone lying face down toward the bottom edge.: image omitted due to site embedding policy; open the original article (CNET) (opens in a new tab) to view it. Photo/source: CNET - https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/iphone-fold-what-we-know-so-far-about-apples-2026-foldable/ (opens in a new tab)
Why It Matters
Apple's entry into the foldable market will be a significant event, even though foldables currently represent a small fraction of the overall smartphone market. Apple’s focus on a crease-free display is particularly noteworthy. Overcoming this engineering challenge will likely push display technology forward, potentially benefiting all smartphone manufacturers. The use of liquid metal in the hinge mechanism, if confirmed, could indicate a move toward more durable and reliable foldable designs. For developers, the introduction of a new form factor will necessitate adaptation of app layouts and user interfaces to optimize the experience on a larger, foldable display. The high predicted price point positions the device as a premium offering, potentially aimed at professional users or those seeking cutting-edge technology.
What To Watch
The information available is still based on leaks and predictions. Key things to watch for include: official confirmation from Apple regarding the device’s existence and launch date; detailed specifications regarding the display technology, hinge mechanism, and processing power; and the final pricing strategy. It remains uncertain whether Apple will initially release one foldable model or multiple variations (e.g., a book-style “Fold” and a clamshell “Flip” as suggested by mockups). The choice of operating system adaptations for the larger screen will also be crucial – will Apple significantly alter iPadOS or create a new, hybrid OS? The success of the iPhone Fold will also heavily depend on whether Apple can address consumer concerns around durability and usability, which have been barriers to wider adoption of foldable phones.