Rumors about Apple’s first foldable iPhone have been gaining momentum, with industry insiders and tech enthusiasts eagerly anticipating its launch. The Cupertino-based tech giant, known for its emphasis on innovation, is reportedly preparing to unveil the foldable device in September 2026, coinciding with the release of the iPhone 18 lineup. This launch will mark Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market, where competitors like Samsung, Huawei, and Motorola have already established a strong presence.
A reliable tipster, Jukanlosreve (@Jukanlosreve), recently cited a report from Korean news outlet Kipost, revealing that Apple plans to begin production of its first foldable iPhone in May 2025. The device is expected to feature a book-style design, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold series, with a smaller external display for quick tasks and a larger internal screen that unfolds to offer a tablet-like experience.
Samsung Display, a long-time partner of Apple, is expected to supply advanced foldable OLED panels for the device. These panels are rumored to feature cutting-edge technology that could surpass existing foldable displays on the market. Apple has reportedly set an ambitious production target of 15-20 million units annually, reflecting its confidence in the demand for this innovative product.
The foldable iPhone is expected to embody Apple’s signature design ethos while incorporating advanced technology to stand out in a competitive market. Key rumored features include:
Display Technology: Samsung’s foldable OLED panels are said to bring unparalleled durability and clarity, offering a seamless user experience.
Dual-Display Design: A smaller external screen for notifications and quick tasks, paired with a larger internal display that unfolds to provide a tablet-like interface.
Refined Build Quality: Apple’s focus on premium materials and robust hinge mechanisms is likely to result in a device that combines elegance with durability.
While specific details about hardware and software remain under wraps, the foldable iPhone is expected to run on the latest version of iOS, optimized for multitasking and foldable screens.
Once launched, Apple’s foldable iPhone will enter a crowded market dominated by established players. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series has set a high standard for foldable smartphones, offering advanced displays, multitasking capabilities, and strong performance. Other competitors include Huawei’s Mate series, Vivo’s X Fold, Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and OnePlus Open, all of which have carved niches with unique features and price points.
Chinese manufacturers like Oppo and Xiaomi have also released foldable smartphones tailored for their home markets, adding to the competition. Apple’s challenge will be to differentiate its offering by leveraging its ecosystem, build quality, and customer loyalty.
Reports suggest that Apple may not stop with a single foldable iPhone. The company is rumored to be working on two foldable devices, including a larger model with a 19-inch screen, which could cater to productivity-focused users. This larger device might blend the features of a laptop and a tablet, appealing to professionals and creatives.
The foldable iPhone, on the other hand, is expected to serve as a compact yet powerful alternative, offering a screen larger than the iPhone 16 Pro Max. These devices, if successful, could redefine Apple’s product lineup and further solidify its position as a leader in innovation.
Apple’s entry into the foldable market is poised to have a significant impact, given its influence in the global smartphone industry. Analysts predict that the foldable iPhone could accelerate the adoption of foldable devices, making them more mainstream. Apple’s extensive ecosystem, which includes seamless integration with MacBooks, iPads, and Apple Watches, could give the foldable iPhone a competitive edge.
Consumers will expect the device to deliver a premium experience, combining innovation with practicality. Features like advanced multitasking, enhanced durability, and extended battery life will likely be critical in meeting user expectations. Apple’s focus on environmental sustainability might also play a role, with efforts to use recycled materials and reduce the carbon footprint of its manufacturing process.
While the foldable iPhone has generated significant excitement, Apple will face several challenges in its development and marketing:
Technical Complexity: Foldable devices require precise engineering, particularly in hinge mechanisms and flexible displays, to ensure durability and reliability.
Pricing Concerns: Foldable smartphones are typically more expensive than traditional devices. Apple will need to strike a balance between premium pricing and accessibility to reach a broader audience.
Competitive Landscape: Established players like Samsung have a head start in the foldable market, making it essential for Apple to introduce standout features and a superior user experience.
On the flip side, the foldable iPhone represents a significant opportunity for Apple to capture a share of the growing foldable market. The device could appeal to consumers seeking versatility and productivity, as well as loyal Apple users eager for the next big innovation.
The rumored foldable iPhone marks Apple’s most significant step toward redefining the smartphone experience in years. With a potential launch date in September 2026, the device is expected to blend cutting-edge technology with Apple’s trademark design and functionality.
As production gears up and anticipation builds, the foldable iPhone could set new benchmarks in the foldable smartphone segment. By leveraging its ecosystem, innovation capabilities, and brand loyalty, Apple is well-positioned to make a lasting impact in this competitive market. If successful, the foldable iPhone could not only challenge industry leaders but also shape the future of smartphones.