Apple’s highly anticipated entry into the foldable smartphone market is taking shape, with the company’s first foldable iPhone expected to debut in 2026 as part of the iPhone 18 lineup. Production is set to begin in 2025, with the device featuring a 7.8-inch inward-folding main display and a 5.5-inch cover display, positioning it as a direct competitor to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. The timeline matches Apple’s characteristic approach of refining technologies before market entry, as shown by its previous delayed adoptions of OLED displays and 5G connectivity.
The device will use ultra-thin cover glass from Corning, with General Interface Solutions (GIS) handling cutting and finishing processes. While this specialized glass is more costly and potentially more delicate, it promises to deliver premium quality and durability. The device’s hinge mechanism will incorporate liquid metal technology to ensure smooth folding operation and enhanced durability, addressing one of the primary concerns that has plagued early foldable devices.
Technical specifications include a quad-camera system, though detailed configuration information remains undisclosed. In a significant advancement of Apple’s biometric authentication strategy, the foldable device is expected to feature both Face ID and an under-display Touch ID system, offering users multiple biometric authentication options. The dual-biometric approach represents a departure from Apple’s current single-authentication strategy and follows industry trends toward enhanced security through multi-factor authentication.
“Foldables have reached an inflection point… we’ve arrived at the kind of experience you can’t get on any other device,” said Samsung executive Drew Blackard, underscoring the market maturity Apple appears to be targeting with its 2026 launch timeline. The strategic timing suggests Apple is prioritizing refined technology over early market entry, a strategy that has proven successful with previous product launches.
The device is expected to retail starting at $1,999, with analyst Ming-Chi Kuo projecting sales of 8-10 million units in 2026, potentially doubling in 2027. The pricing strategy positions the foldable iPhone in the premium segment of the market, comparable to current high-end foldable devices. The foldable iPhone is anticipated to precede a larger foldable iPad, which is expected to command a higher price point when it launches, suggesting Apple’s broader strategy to expand its foldable device ecosystem.
Sources: YouTube, MacRumors, Tom’s Guide, Gadget Hacks
