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The iPhone Air is currently considered the thinnest iPhone of all time. But it could soon lose this top spot. A completely new model, the iPhone Fold, is expected for next year. It's not only the first foldable iPhone ever, but also a device that's even thinner than the iPhone Air when unfolded.
Apple has long been working on the idea of a foldable iPhone. Industry analysts and leaks indicate that a milestone is imminent with the iPhone Fold in 2026. The device could change the iPhone lineup as dramatically as the first iPhone did. The focus on thickness is particularly interesting. While the iPhone Air, at 5.6 millimeters, is considered an ultra-thin smartphone, the iPhone Fold is expected to be significantly thinner.
The iPhone Air as the current benchmark
At 5.64 millimeters thick, the iPhone Air is the slimmest iPhone yet. Apple has proven that design, strength, and technology can be combined in an extremely thin case. But if current information is correct, this record won't last.
Planned dimensions of the iPhone Fold
The iPhone Fold is said to be between 4.5 and 4.8 millimeters thick when unfolded. When closed, it will be between 9 and 9.5 millimeters. These figures come from a report by renowned Apple analyst Ming Chi-Kuo. While Apple may have finalized the specifications by now, Kuo's figures are still considered a reliable indicator. This provides a clear comparison:
- iPhone Air: 5.64 mm
- iPhone Fold unfolded: 4.5–4.8 mm
- iPhone Fold when closed: 9-9.5mm
When unfolded, the iPhone Fold would be about 20 percent thinner than the iPhone Air. When folded, it would be about the same thickness as an iPhone 17 Pro, which measures 8.75 millimeters.
Comparison with the current iPhone series
To better understand the dimensions, it is worth taking a look at the entire current model range:
- iPhone 17: 7.95 mm
- iPhone Air: 5.64 mm
- iPhone 17 Pro: 8.75 mm
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: 8.75 mm
- iPhone Fold unfolded: 4.5–4.8 mm
- iPhone Fold when closed: 9-9.5mm
The numbers make it clear that Apple is not only introducing a new concept with the Fold, but is also setting new standards in terms of dimensions.
Significance for iPhone development
The iPhone Fold could fundamentally change the product line. Firstly, it would be the thinnest iPhone for everyday use. Secondly, when folded, it would take up barely more space in your pocket than a current Pro model. This combines the advantages of compactness with a generous display for everyday use. Apple appears to have succeeded in mastering the technical challenge of designing a foldable smartphone so that it appears extremely thin when unfolded, yet remains stable. This potentially sets the iPhone Fold apart from other foldables on the market, which often struggle with compromises in terms of thickness and weight.
- Foldable iPhone 2026: No fold – Apple's biggest breakthrough?
- iPhone Fold: Why Apple's foldable phone is ahead of the competition
- The iPhone Fold is said to offer two key advantages
- iPhone Fold: How Apple wants to overtake the competition
The iPhone Fold as a turning point in the smartphone market
The iPhone Fold is likely to be the most exciting model in the iPhone lineup in 2026. With a thickness of just 4.5 to 4.8 millimeters when unfolded, it would be significantly thinner than even the iPhone Air. When folded, it's barely thicker than an iPhone 17 Pro, making it suitable for everyday use. If Apple meets expectations, the iPhone Fold could not only redefine iPhone design but also significantly influence the foldable market. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including HomeKit accessories. (Image: Apple)
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