The foldable smartphone market is about to get more competitive as new leaks reveal Apple's ambitious plans for its first foldable iPhone. While Samsung and Google have already established their presence in this segment, Apple appears to be taking its time to perfect the technology before making its entry, potentially as early as 2026.
Display Specifications Revealed
According to recent leaks from a Chinese tipster known as Digital Chat Station, Apple's foldable iPhone (tentatively called the iPhone Fold) will feature an impressive 7.76-inch inner display with a resolution of 2,713 x 1,920 pixels. The outer display will be more compact at 5.49 inches with a resolution of 2,088 x 1,422 pixels. These specifications suggest Apple is focusing on delivering crisp visual quality across both screens, potentially outperforming current foldable offerings in the market.
iPhone Fold Display Specifications:
- Inner display: 7.76 inches, 2,713 x 1,920 resolution, 4:3 aspect ratio
- Outer display: 5.49 inches, 2,088 x 1,422 resolution
- Inner display: Under-screen camera technology
- Outer display: Punch-hole camera design
Innovative Camera Implementation
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the leak is the camera implementation. The inner display will reportedly feature under-screen camera technology, providing users with an uninterrupted viewing experience. This would mark Apple's first use of this technology in any of its devices. Meanwhile, the outer display is expected to incorporate a more traditional punch-hole camera design. This dual approach suggests Apple is balancing innovation with practicality in its first foldable device.
Authentication Methods
The implementation of different camera technologies raises questions about how Apple will handle user authentication on the iPhone Fold. Some reports suggest Apple might place the Dynamic Island on the outer display for faster authentication, explaining the punch-hole design choice. However, other analysts, including Ming-Chi Kuo, believe Apple might forego Face ID entirely for this model, potentially opting for Touch ID integrated into the power button, similar to the current iPad Air lineup.
Design Philosophy
The iPhone Fold appears to be taking a different approach to form factor compared to some competitors. With a reported 4:3 aspect ratio for the inner display, the device will have a more square-like shape when unfolded. This design choice may facilitate better compatibility with existing iPad apps without requiring significant modifications from developers. Additionally, Apple is reportedly working on a crease-free inner display, addressing one of the most common complaints about current foldable devices.
Durability Considerations
Durability has been a key concern for Apple in developing its foldable technology. The company is reportedly considering a metallic glass hinge for the iPhone Fold, which could enhance the device's longevity and resistance to repeated folding and unfolding. This technology might also contribute to reducing the visibility of screen creases, further improving the user experience.
Market Position and Pricing
The iPhone Fold is expected to position itself as a premium offering in Apple's lineup, with a potential price tag of around USD $2,000. This would place it in direct competition with high-end foldable devices from Samsung and other manufacturers. According to analyst Jeff Pu, the device has already entered the New Product Introduction phase, suggesting development is progressing steadily.
Expected Features:
- Crease-free inner display
- Potential metallic glass hinge for improved durability
- Possible Touch ID in power button instead of Face ID
- Expected price: Around USD $2,000
- Potential release: 2026
Future Foldable Plans
Beyond the iPhone Fold, Apple is reportedly developing a larger 18.8-inch foldable iPad that could run macOS. This device might be the first to incorporate under-screen Face ID sensors for authentication, showcasing Apple's broader ambitions in the foldable device category.
As Apple continues to refine its approach to foldable technology, the company's delayed entry into this market segment may ultimately work to its advantage, allowing it to learn from competitors' missteps and deliver a more polished product when it finally launches.