Kuo Predicts Arrival Of Foldable IPhone In Late 2026

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Everything We Know About the Upcoming Foldable iPhone

The foldable iPhone has captured the imagination of Apple fans and tech enthusiasts alike, often discussed like a unicorn in the world of technology. While we know a foldable iPhone will eventually arrive, details about its release date and specifications are still mostly speculation. According to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the first foldable iPhone is expected to launch around late 2026. Let’s explore what we know about its features and design.

Expected Release Date

Current predictions suggest that Apple might start the production of the foldable iPhone as early as Q3 of 2025. However, mass production is anticipated to kick off in Q4 of 2026, with the device officially hitting the market later that year. Although these timelines are not confirmed, they provide a hopeful scenario for Apple fans who are eager to get their hands on this innovative device.

Design and Display

Sources indicate that Apple is planning a book-style foldable iPhone. At the heart of its design is a 5.5-inch outer display, complemented by a larger 7.8-inch OLED screen on the inside. This inner display is said to feature a “crease-free” design thanks to an advanced hinge mechanism. Ming-Chi Kuo reports that Bright Laser Technologies (BLT) is leading the charge in providing the hinge and midframe for this new device. It’s expected that the construction material for both components will be a combination of stainless steel and titanium. Advanced 3D printing techniques will possibly be employed to create these slender profiles.

Comparing with Other Foldable Models

This design approach draws some parallels to what we see in other foldable phones, like the Oppo Find N5. The cutting-edge 3D-printed titanium wing panel in the Oppo device showcases the potential for stronger yet lightweight components in foldable smartphones.

Fingerprint and Camera Features

One intriguing aspect of the foldable iPhone is that it will reportedly lack Face ID. Instead, Apple is expected to incorporate a Touch ID fingerprint reader into the power button located on the side. This design choice may contribute to a slimmer profile for the device. In terms of photography capabilities, the foldable iPhone is rumored to have a dual-lens camera setup on the back, along with front-facing cameras for both the cover and main screens.

Dimensions

Unfolded thickness: 4.5–4.8mm
Folded thickness: 9–9.5mm

The slim design, along with its use of titanium (similar to the Pro model iPhones), makes this a standout device even before its launch.

Anticipated Price Tag

As expected with a first-generation product, the foldable iPhone might carry a hefty price tag. According to Kuo, the cost is likely to range between $2,000 and $2,500. This pricing places the device in the premium category. Predictions suggest that Apple could ship between 3 million to 5 million units in 2026, with expectations that the second-generation model could see shipments jump to around 20 million units by 2027.

Wrap Up – A Glimpse Into the Future

While all this information remains speculative for now, it paints a picture of what we can expect from Apple’s first foray into foldable smartphones. Many details are still up in the air, and fans will need to wait for further announcements from Apple to confirm these features and specs. The interest in a foldable iPhone is at an all-time high, and it seems Apple is committed to adding this exciting product to its lineup in the near future.