Apple set to introduce its inaugural foldable iPhone in 2026, potentially costing over Rs 2 lakh: Report

Apple’s Upcoming Foldable iPhone: What You Need to Know

Apple has been in the spotlight for a while now, working on its very own foldable iPhone. While there’s been a lot of speculation about its design and features, new reports suggest more details about this innovative device, including how it will look, its capabilities, and when you might be able to buy it.

Expected Design Features of Apple’s Foldable iPhone

1. Book-Style Design
   Analyst Ming Chi-Kuo indicates that Apple’s first foldable iPhone would likely come in a book-style design. This means it will open up like a book, as opposed to a flip phone style.

2. Crease-less Display
   One exciting feature is that the foldable display is expected to be crease-less. This means that when the phone is folded, you won’t see a noticeable line down the middle, which often affects other foldable phones available today.

3. Display Sizes
   Reportedly, the inner display will measure around 7.8 inches when opened, perfect for multimedia use, while the outer display will measure about 5.5 inches. This provides a handy screen for notifications or quick tasks without the need to open the device fully.

4. Dimensions
   The foldable iPhone is predicted to be relatively slim, measuring between 9mm to 9.5mm when closed and 4.5mm to 4.8mm when opened. This compact design is made possible with a titanium alloy casing, giving it strength without adding too much weight.

5. Advanced Hinge Mechanism
   Kuo shared that Apple will use a combination of stainless steel and titanium for the hinge. The complexity of this design will be produced with 3D printing technology to ensure precision and durability.

6. Touch ID Feature
   To make the phone thinner, Apple may replace the Face ID feature with a side-mounted Touch ID button. This change will allow for easy access to unlock the device while maintaining a sleek profile.

7. Camera Setup
   The device is expected to feature a dual-camera setup on the back and a single front camera. These cameras will work in both folded and unfolded positions, enhancing the versatility for photography and video calls.

8. High-Density Battery Cells
   Like the upcoming iPhone 17, Apple’s foldable phone is anticipated to have high-density battery cells, which should allow longer usage times without compromising on performance.

9. AI Features
   There is also talk about integrating new AI features. This could include cross-app integration and advanced functionality, like using an AI chatbot while you multitask with other apps.

Anticipated Price and Release Timeline

1. Pricing Information
   The foldable iPhone is being marketed as a premium product with an expected price range between $2,000 (approximately ₹1.74 lakhs) and $2,500 (around ₹2.17 lakhs). This positions it squarely in the luxury smartphone market.

2. Launch Details
   According to reports, Apple might finalize the specifications for the foldable iPhone in the second quarter of 2025. Following that, mass production could start by the end of 2026. Initially, they plan to limit shipments to around 3-5 million units, which hints at a careful rollout to ensure quality.

3. Future Models
   Looking ahead, Apple is already planning a second-generation foldable iPhone, which may launch in 2027. Production for this model is expected to start in the latter half of 2027, with around 20 million units expected to ship that year.

Additional Insights

The anticipation surrounding Apple’s foldable iPhone reflects the growing interest in foldable technology. Companies like Samsung and Huawei have already introduced their versions of foldable smartphones, setting the stage for what consumers may expect. With potential features like seamless displays and robust designs, Apple aims to rise to the occasion and perhaps set new standards in the industry.

The journey toward the launch of Apple’s foldable iPhone excites many tech enthusiasts and potential buyers alike. As the project progresses, consumers will be watching closely to see how Apple innovates and enhances the user experience in this new foldable form factor.

In summary, Apple’s foldable iPhone, with its expected cutting-edge technology, premium pricing, and unique design, could change how users interact with smartphones. Whether it lives up to the hype remains to be seen, but the future looks promising for fans of foldable devices.