iPhone Fold launch window: 2026 debut possible, 2027 delay not ruled out
The latest rumors about a foldable iPhone suggests the iPhone Fold could arrive in 2026 or 2027, with most recent reports pointing to a possible debut as part of Apple’s fall 2026 iPhone lineup, but, some reports also say hinge-related issues could still push the launch into 2027, as per an Apple Insider report.
iPhone Fold internal display size and resolution details leak
Unlike existing iPhones, the iPhone Fold is expected to feature a book-style folding design. When opened, its internal display is rumored to measure 7.76 inches, making it closer in size and feel to an iPad mini than a traditional smartphone. To achieve this, leaked CAD drawings suggest Apple may adopt a squarer and wider design when the phone is folded, rather than the tall, narrow shape of current iPhones, as per the Apple Insider report. The internal screen resolution is rumored to be 2,713 by 1,920.
Because it folds, thickness is a key concern. Reports claim the device could be around 5.64mm thick when unfolded, with the folded thickness likely a little over 11mm.
Samsung Display likely to supply Apple’s foldable screen
The foldable display itself is expected to be a major focus. Early rumors suggested Apple worked with LG Display, but more recent reports point to Samsung Display becoming the main supplier, drawing on its experience with foldable smartphones. Apple reportedly spent years trying to reduce or eliminate the visible crease that often appears on foldable screens. By mid-2025, reports suggested Apple may use a Samsung-developed display design that has already been shown publicly, as per the Apple Insider report.
External display to allow regular iPhone use when folded
The iPhone Fold is also expected to include a second, external display. This outer screen would allow the device to be used like a regular iPhone when folded. Rumors suggest a 5.49-inch external display with a resolution of 2,088 by 1,422 and a pixel density similar to current iPhone models, as per the Apple Insider report.
Liquidmetal hinge may solve durability challenges
A key hardware challenge has reportedly been the hinge. Apple is believed to be considering Liquidmetal for the hinge mechanism, a material known for its strength, resistance to deformation, and relatively light weight.
Camera rumors suggest the iPhone Fold could feature two rear cameras, likely a main and an ultra-wide sensor. To keep the internal screen free of interruptions, Apple is thought to be planning an under-display camera for the foldable screen, while the external display may use a punch-hole camera.
iPhone Fold price expectations
As for pricing, the iPhone Fold is expected to sit at the very top of Apple’s lineup. Estimates from 2025 suggest a price starting at around $2,000, with some reports placing it between $2,100 and $2,300, as per the Apple Insider report. While the exact figure remains unclear, the device is widely expected to cost significantly more than current iPhones.
DISCLAIMER
However, it must be noted that none of the details in this article about the iPhone Fold is confirmed by Apple and is only based on speculations.
Rumors regarding the "iPhone Fold" (or iPhone Ultra) have reached a fever pitch this January 2026. After years of speculation, supply chain leaks and CAD drawings suggest that Apple is finally moving toward a commercial release.
Here is the latest intelligence on design, pricing, and the launch window.
1. Design: The "Book-Style" Evolution
Unlike the "clamshell" flip phones, Apple is reportedly sticking to a book-style design similar to the Galaxy Z Fold series, aimed at merging the iPhone and iPad mini experiences.
Dual Displays: * Internal: A massive 7.8-inch crease-free OLED panel (roughly the size of an iPad mini).
2 External: A 5.5-inch cover screen for quick tasks.
3
The "Crease" Solution: Apple is rumored to be using a Liquidmetal hinge and a specialized "stress-dispersion" display lamination to make the screen almost entirely flat when unfolded—addressing the biggest complaint about current foldables.
4 Dimensions: Leaks suggest it will be incredibly thin, approximately 5.6mm when unfolded, making it one of the slimmest devices in its class.
5 Biometrics: Due to the thinness, Face ID might be replaced by a side-mounted Touch ID sensor integrated into the power button.
6 
2. Expected Price
The iPhone Fold is positioned as a "Super-Premium" tier above the Pro Max models. Analysts from UBS and Mizuho suggest it will be the most expensive iPhone ever made.
USA: Expected to start between $2,000 and $2,400.
7 India: Estimated price could range from ₹1,75,000 to ₹2,15,000, depending on local taxes and import duties.
3. Possible Launch Date
The timeline has shifted slightly due to Apple’s strict durability testing on the folding mechanism.
Primary Target: September 2026.
8 Most reliable leakers (including Mark Gurman) point to a debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup.9 The "Buffer" Window: If hinge production yields don't meet Apple's "zero-fail" standards by mid-year, the launch could slip to March 2027.
4. Hardware Specs (Leaked)
| Feature | Rumored Specification |
| Processor | A20 Pro chip (built on 2nm process) |
| RAM | 12GB or 16GB (to handle heavy "Apple Intelligence" multitasking) |
| Camera | Triple 48MP setup (Wide, Ultra-wide, Telephoto) |
| Selfie | Under-display camera on the internal screen |
| Battery | 5,400–5,800 mAh (dual-cell design) |
Note: As of today, Apple has not officially confirmed the existence of this device.
10 However, the appearance of "iPhone Fold" molds at recent trade events like CES 2026 suggests that third-party case makers are already preparing for a late-year launch.
Would you like me to track the price trends of existing foldable competitors like the Samsung Z Fold 7 to see how they might react to Apple's entry?
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