Apple continues to push the boundaries of innovation with two significant developments in its product pipeline. Recent reports from industry analysts reveal Apple's plans to enhance its in-house modem technology while simultaneously developing its first foldable iPhone. These moves signal Apple's ongoing strategy to control more of its hardware stack while exploring new form factors in the increasingly competitive smartphone market.
Apple's Refreshed C1 Modem Set for 2026 Release
According to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is developing an improved version of its custom C1 modem with significant enhancements. The refreshed chip will notably add mmWave support, a feature currently missing from the first-generation C1 modem found in the iPhone 16e. This addition will allow future devices to access the fastest 5G speeds available, bringing them in line with the capabilities of Qualcomm-powered flagship iPhones.
The upgraded modem isn't just about speed, though. Apple is reportedly focusing heavily on improving power efficiency while maintaining stable performance. This aligns with Apple's typical approach of prioritizing real-world user experience over raw specifications. The company appears to be taking a methodical approach to modem development, with Kuo indicating that mass production of the refreshed C1 will begin next year.
Refreshed C1 Modem Features:
- mmWave 5G support
- Improved power efficiency
- Enhanced transmission speed
- Expected release: 2026
- Potential devices: iPhone 17e, iPads with cellular support
Expanding Modem Integration Across Product Lines
Apple's modem strategy appears to be part of a broader plan to reduce dependency on Qualcomm as a supplier. The refreshed C1 modem could potentially find its way into more devices beyond just the entry-level iPhone models. Reports suggest the technology might be incorporated into the iPhone 17e and possibly extend to iPads with cellular connectivity.
This gradual expansion of Apple's custom modem technology follows a pattern similar to what we've seen with the company's transition to Apple Silicon in its Mac lineup. Starting with more modest implementations before expanding to higher-performance devices allows Apple to refine the technology while minimizing disruption to its flagship products.
Book-Style Foldable iPhone Coming in Late 2026
In a separate but equally significant development, Ming-Chi Kuo reports that Apple's first foldable iPhone will launch in late 2026. Contrary to some expectations of a clamshell design similar to Samsung's Z Flip series, Apple is reportedly opting for a book-style form factor reminiscent of devices like the Samsung Galaxy Fold.
The foldable iPhone will allegedly feature a 5.5-inch outer display paired with a larger 7.8-inch OLED internal screen. Apple appears to be addressing one of the common criticisms of foldable phones by implementing an advanced hinge mechanism similar to OPPO's Flexion Hinge, which should minimize the visible crease that often appears on folding displays.
Premium Materials and Innovative Design
The foldable iPhone will reportedly showcase Apple's commitment to premium materials and manufacturing techniques. According to Kuo, the device will utilize a combination of stainless steel and titanium for its midframe and hinge components, with Bright Laser Technologies (BLT) serving as the leading supplier for these critical parts.
Perhaps most impressively, the device is expected to maintain Apple's reputation for slim designs even in this new form factor. When unfolded, the device will reportedly measure just 4.5-4.8mm thick, expanding to 9-9.5mm when folded – dimensions that would make it one of the thinnest foldable phones on the market. To achieve this slim profile, Apple is reportedly leveraging advanced 3D printing technology.
Foldable iPhone Specifications:
- Form factor: Book-style design
- Outer display: 5.5-inch
- Inner display: 7.8-inch OLED
- Materials: Titanium casing, stainless steel and titanium midframe/hinge
- Thickness: 4.5-4.8mm unfolded, 9-9.5mm folded
- Authentication: Touch ID (power button)
- Camera: Dual-lens rear setup
- Price range: US$2,000-US$2,500
- Production timeline: Initial production Q3 2025, mass production 2026
- Launch: Late 2026
- First-year shipment forecast: 3-5 million units
Authentication Changes and Camera Configuration
Interestingly, the foldable iPhone will reportedly bring back Touch ID, integrating the fingerprint sensor into the power button rather than using Face ID. This decision is reportedly driven by the desire to maintain the device's slim profile, suggesting that the components required for Face ID would add unwanted thickness to the design.
Camera capabilities appear more modest than Apple's Pro lineup, with reports indicating a dual-lens rear camera system. Both the cover display and main internal display will reportedly feature front-facing cameras, ensuring video calling capabilities regardless of how the device is being used.
Premium Pricing and Production Timeline
As with most first-generation Apple products exploring new form factors, the foldable iPhone won't come cheap. Kuo estimates pricing between US$2,000 to US$2,500, positioning it as a premium offering even by Apple's standards. Initial production is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with mass production ramping up in 2026 for a late 2026 launch.
Apple appears to be taking a measured approach to production volume, with Kuo forecasting between 3-5 million units shipped in the first year. However, a second-generation version is already in the planning stages, with expectations of up to 20 million shipments in 2027, suggesting Apple anticipates growing demand as the technology matures and potentially becomes more affordable.
