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Apple is working on a foldable iPhone. The project was long considered speculation, but concrete clues about the features, design, and timing of the so-called iPhone Fold are now accumulating. Two independent sources have now confirmed key details about the planned display sizes for the first time. New information about the rest of the technology has also emerged.
The foldable market has so far been dominated by Samsung. Apple is holding back, apparently with the goal of bringing a technically mature product to market. Instead of rapid releases, the company is focusing on a finished system with a well-thought-out design. There are now clear hints about what the iPhone Fold might look like and when it will be released.
Display sizes: 7.8 inches inside, 5.5 inches outside
According to Taiwanese research firm TrendForce , the iPhone Fold will feature a 7.8-inch internal display, while the external display will measure 5.5 inches. These figures are consistent with a prediction made by Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo in March. It's unclear whether TrendForce is using its own sources or relying on Kuo's statements, but the consistent figures still lend weight to the rumor. In comparison, the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 offers an 8-inch internal screen and a 6.5-inch external display. Thus, Apple remains somewhat smaller than its competitors, suggesting a more compact form factor.
Expected market launch in the second half of 2026
TrendForce expects a market launch in the second half of 2026. This fits Apple's typical release schedule. A September launch would therefore be likely. Until then, Apple has enough time to perfect the hardware and adapt the software for the new form factor.
Wrinkle-free display thanks to special metal plate
A key problem with foldable displays is the visible crease in the middle. Apple apparently wants to solve this problem technically. Ming-Chi Kuo reports that the iPhone Fold will have a virtually crease-free internal display. This is supposedly made possible by a laser-drilled metal display plate that evenly distributes mechanical stress during folding. This could make the display not only visually smoother but also more durable.
Technical features: Two rear cameras, Touch ID instead of Face ID
There's also new information about other features. The iPhone Fold is said to be equipped with two rear cameras and a front camera. A Touch ID sensor in the power button is planned as a biometric unlocking method. Face ID doesn't appear to be planned, possibly due to space constraints. The power button with a fingerprint sensor could be a space-saving alternative, as is also used in some iPads.
iPhone Fold: Apple's foldable phone becomes tangible
The iPhone Fold is taking shape. The leaked information on display sizes, display technology, and features paints a clear picture of what Apple is planning. Compared to Samsung, the device appears somewhat more compact, but technically ambitious—especially with the goal of a crease-free display. With a market launch in 2026, Apple may be lagging behind the competition, but it could enter the market with a mature product. (Photo by seveniwe / Bigstockphoto)
