Apple’s Foldable iPhone Rumored to Launch in 2026 After Years of Speculation

Rumors regarding Apple’s potential entry into the foldable smartphone market have been circulating for quite some time, but recent reports indicate that the tech giant is inching closer to an official announcement. According to reliable insiders, Apple is working on two foldable devices: a clamshell-style iPhone and a larger 19-inch foldable iPad, with the foldable iPhone set to make its debut first.

The design of Apple’s initial foldable iPhone is expected to be akin to popular models like the Galaxy Z Flip and Motorola Razr, featuring a screen that folds inward, allowing the device to be more compact when stored. New details emerging from The Wall Street Journal suggest that this innovative smartphone will boast a screen larger than the current iPhone 16 Pro Max, clocking in at an impressive size of at least 7 inches. This enhancement signifies a shift in Apple’s smartphone design, offering a combination of portability and expanded functionality.

Additionally, Apple’s plans for a larger foldable device—a 19-inch model that would operate similarly to a laptop—indicate the company’s ambition to push boundaries in mobile technology. Internally, Apple is facing challenges typical of developing foldable technology, such as reducing creasing visibility, enhancing hinge mechanisms, and selecting suitable materials for the display cover. However, it is apparent that Apple is diligently addressing these technical hurdles to ensure a smooth launch.

The news arrives amidst a lukewarm market for foldable smartphones. According to a report from Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), which tracks trends in the display industry, the growth rate for foldable smartphones has dramatically slowed. After experiencing a considerable 40% year-over-year growth rate from 2019 to 2023, the firm predicts that this rate will diminish to just 5% in 2024. Moreover, the industry is expected to witness a decline in sales starting in 2025, especially as the demand stabilizes around 22 million units.

Despite this trend, the introduction of a foldable iPhone by Apple could significantly rejuvenate interest in foldable devices. Many consumers have expressed a strong fondness for the foldable concept popularized by competitors but remain hesitant to leave the iPhone ecosystem. Analysts are hopeful that Apple’s unique take on foldable technology could reinvigorate the market with new features and functionalities not yet seen in existing products.

Sources suggest that Apple’s first foldable iPhone is slated for release in the latter half of 2026, potentially unveiling alongside the highly anticipated iPhone 18 series, assuming no additional development delays occur. The project, reportedly assigned the codename V68, has moved beyond the initial prototyping stages, indicating a commitment to bringing this innovative device to market. With this strategic planning, Apple might be poised not only to enter the foldable segment but also to redefine it in a way that aligns with the company’s reputation for innovation and quality.

The excitement surrounding Apple’s potential foldable iPhone continues to build with each passing day, reflecting consumer eagerness for bold advancements in smartphone technology. As we anticipate further updates on this project, the tech community remains on the lookout for what Apple will bring to the table with its burgeoning foldable lineup.