Apple is working on a foldable iPhone, scheduled for release in 2026. For years, there has been speculation about whether such a device is even in development. Now, the evidence is mounting, and new reports are providing exciting details. One of the most important revelations concerns the design: Contrary to previous assumptions, the iPhone "Fold" will not fold from top to bottom like traditional flip phones, but will open like a book. This concept could significantly increase the practicality of the device.
Foldable smartphones are nothing new. Samsung, Huawei, and other manufacturers already have models on the market. However, Apple typically only enters a new product area when the technology is mature enough to meet its high quality standards. Apple's intention to launch a foldable iPhone is a clear sign that the time is now ripe for such devices. The latest information shows that the iPhone "Fold" could be more than just a response to the current trend.
The first foldable iPhone becomes reality
There have long been rumors about Apple's plans for a foldable smartphone. Especially in recent years, several trusted sources have confirmed that Apple is indeed working on such a device. These include Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, and the news site "The Information." According to them, Apple plans to launch the iPhone "Fold" in fall 2026. Until recently, reports suggested that Apple might opt for a design similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, a phone that folds from top to bottom. But now there's a significant change: The foldable iPhone will instead open like a book.
The new design: A book-like iPhone instead of a flip phone
Ming-Chi Kuo has revealed new technical details in his latest report, revealing that the foldable iPhone will have two displays:
- A 7.8-inch, crease-free interior display that can be used like a small tablet when unfolded
- A 5.5-inch external display that can be used for quick tasks without opening
Apple is taking its cues from foldable smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold, but apparently going a step further by developing optimized display technology that avoids visible creases in the middle. The outer display, in particular, could make a big difference, as it allows the device to be fully usable even when closed.
Why the book-like design makes more sense
Opting for a book-style foldable design makes more sense for many users than a traditional flip phone. A phone that unfolds into a tablet could appeal to a wider audience, as it can be used for communication as well as productivity or entertainment. For Apple, this approach makes strategic sense. While a flip phone would simply be a regular iPhone with a smaller form factor, a book-like foldable can combine the features of an iPad with those of an iPhone. This means that users may be able to forgo an iPad if the foldable iPhone offers a similarly sized screen.
The foldable iPhone could replace an iPad mini
Anyone using an iPad mini could find an interesting alternative in the iPhone "Fold." The device is said to have a 7.8-inch display when unfolded—almost as large as the old 7.9-inch iPad mini. Such a device would have the advantage of combining the portability of an iPhone with the larger display of a tablet. Anyone working or consuming media on the go could get exactly what previously required two devices with the foldable iPhone.
Apple wants to serve more than just one trend
Samsung and other manufacturers have already established foldable smartphones, but Apple is known for adopting technologies only when they are truly mature. The iPhone "Fold" is therefore likely not just a reaction to a market trend, but a well-thought-out development that offers real added value. While many current foldables still struggle with visible creases in the display or durability issues, Apple could score points with more robust and crease-free display technology. This would make the foldable iPhone more attractive than previous models from other manufacturers.
Apple's foldable iPhone: A new product category emerges
Apple's foldable iPhone is becoming increasingly concrete. The latest revelations show that the device will be designed more like a foldable book than a traditional clamshell phone. With a large internal display and a practical external display, it could be an exciting alternative for anyone looking for a versatile smartphone. Particularly interesting is the possibility of using the iPhone "Fold" as a combination of an iPhone and an iPad mini. This would allow Apple to not only launch a foldable device, but create an entirely new product category. Fall 2026 may still be a long way off, but with every new piece of information, curiosity about Apple's first foldable phone grows. If the company manages to circumvent the known weaknesses of foldable smartphones, the iPhone "Fold" could be a real game changer. Our Amazon Storefront: The best products for your smart home and much more! (Photo by Unsplash+ / Philip Oroni)
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