Apple’s first foldable iPhone is slated for a 2026 launch, with Samsung Display supplying 7-8 million crease-free panels. Production begins late 2025, led by Foxconn, targeting 15-20 million units over its lifecycle. The device may feature a 7.8-inch inner display, dual 48MP cameras, and a premium price of $2,000-$2,500.
Apple’s Foldable iPhone: A New Era with Samsung’s Display Innovation
Apple is poised to enter the foldable smartphone market with its much-anticipated foldable iPhone, expected to debut in the second half of 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 lineup. According to industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple has partnered with Samsung Display to produce 7-8 million foldable panels for the device, aiming for a crease-free 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch outer cover display. This collaboration leverages Samsung’s expertise in AMOLED technology, with Apple pushing for a near-invisible crease, a persistent challenge in foldable devices.
The foldable iPhone, potentially named the iPhone Ultra, entered its initial prototype (P1) phase in June 2025, with three prototypes currently undergoing testing. Apple’s supply chain, led by Foxconn and Pegatron, is gearing up for limited trial runs before mass production begins in late Q3 or early Q4 of 2025. The device is expected to feature a book-style design, measuring 9.2mm thick when closed and 4.6mm when unfolded, making it slimmer than competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6.
Samsung Display’s role is pivotal, with finalized specifications for the foldable panel, which is rumored to be 19% thinner than the Galaxy Z Fold’s display. The iPhone Fold may also incorporate a durable “liquid metal” hinge, potentially made of titanium and stainless steel, and a dual rear camera setup with 48MP sensors. Apple is exploring under-display cameras and may opt for side-mounted Touch ID instead of Face ID due to space constraints.
Production estimates suggest Apple aims to ship 3-5 million units in 2026, with an order of 15-20 million units over the device’s 2-3 year lifecycle. Priced between $2,000 and $2,500 (approximately ₹1.73 lakh to ₹2.16 lakh), the foldable iPhone targets the premium market, competing directly with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series and other foldables from Google and Chinese manufacturers. However, high production costs and manufacturing challenges, particularly around flexible displays, have delayed Apple’s entry into this segment.
While Apple has paused development of a foldable iPad due to similar manufacturing hurdles, the focus remains on perfecting the iPhone Fold. The device’s premium pricing and innovative features, such as a 5,000mAh battery and an aluminium alloy frame, position it as a high-end offering. Industry experts note that Apple’s entry could reshape the foldable market, which Samsung currently dominates, potentially driving mainstream adoption.
Disclaimer: This article is based on reports, leaks, and analyst insights from sources like Ming-Chi Kuo, DigiTimes, and MacRumors. Information is subject to change as Apple has not officially confirmed details. Always verify with official announcements for accuracy.