Apple’s first foldable iPhone tipped to launch in 2026 with a premium price tag

iPhone Fold

Popular Android brands such as Samsung, Google, Motorola, OnePlus, and others have already launched their foldable devices in the past few years. Moreover, companies like Huawei and Oppo have showcased innovative triple-screen or ultra-slim foldable smartphones in recent times. However, Apple has yet to catch up and appears to be taking a more polished approach to things, ensuring a stylish and high-end foldable device when it eventually does launch.

Apple’s foldable iPhone tipped to launch in late 2026: Key details

According to renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple will finalize the specifications of its first foldable iPhone by the second quarter of 2025, while mass production isn't expected to commence until the fourth quarter of 2026. Moreover, he has confirmed that the initial production of the device is expected to be limited, and Apple might ship up to 5 million units by next year.

As for its display size, the phone is said to have a 7.8-inch inner foldable screen and a 5.5-inch outer cover screen, providing users with a big screen estate in both forms. Additionally, the device will likely feature a book-style design similar to the Galaxy Z Fold smartphones, catering to the premium segment of the market.

Kuo has also confirmed that the phone will not have Face ID. Instead, it will use a Touch ID side button to save internal space. Like recent iPhones, it is expected to be marketed as a 'true AI-driven phone,' with the larger screens making multitasking with AI easier. As for its expected pricing, Kuo states that this foldable iPhone could cost over $2,000, possibly even $2,500.