Apple’s first foldable iPhone has been rumored for years. The company is expected to launch its first foldable iPhone in 2026. Reports suggest that Apple wants its first attempt to land with the polish of a mature product rather than the compromises, which is usually seen in first-gen hardware.  

The dual-screen foldable design, predicted to be a bold step by Apple, could revolutionize the foldable smartphone market, which is currently dominated by Samsung. Here is everything you need to know. 

What We Know So Far?  

The leaks suggest a launch aligned with the iPhone 18 Pro cycle. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the handset may resemble two iPhone Air models placed side by side, featuring an ultra-thin titanium chassis. 

The latest round of leaks provide a clear picture of what the company may finally unveil in 2026.  

Several Android brands have been experimenting with book-style foldables. However, Apple appears to be treating this category as a long-term bet rather than a side project. 

What makes this device interesting is not just that it folds.  

Foldable iPhone Display  

According to a JP Morgan equity research report, Apple’s foldable will use a 24-megapixel under-display camera on the inner screen. It is not offered to any of the Android foldable devices yet.  

Most brands still rely on 4MP or 8MP under-screen implementations. If this turns out to be true, it would be a breakthrough in image clarity and light transmission. These two factors have always prevented the quality of hidden cameras in foldable devices. 

Battery 

Battery details are also making huge hype among enthusiasts. Ming-Chi Kuo has said the phone will use high-density cells.  

Some Korean reports suggest that Apple is testing capacities between 5,400mAh and 5,800mAh.  

Chinese leaker Instant Digital claimed that the final number will “definitely” cross 5,000mAh. 

If this report turns out to be true, this would be the biggest battery ever seen on an iPhone. It will surpass the iPhone 17 Pro Max.  

It also puts Apple closer to competitors like the Vivo X-Fold 5 and Honor Magic V5.  These models feature larger batteries in this category. 

Hardware  

Several reports claimed that a foldable iPhone will have a 7.8-inch main display when the device is unfolded. It will also carry a compact 5.5-inch cover screen.  

Recent leaks also claimed that Apple may bring back a Touch ID for this model instead of using Face ID.  

Camera  

The camera system includes four modules. 

• A hole-punch selfie camera on the outer screen 

• A high-resolution under-display camera inside 

• Dual 48-megapixel setup on the back. 

Price  

The foldable iPhone is likely to launch at a lofty price tag. The reported price, according to Bloomberg, is around $2,000 (roughly Rs 1,76,000) in the US market. In the Indian market, the price will be much higher, like other iPhone variants. Meanwhile, Apple’s competitor, Samsung Z Fold 7, was earlier launched at $1,999. 

Buzz is strong that Chinese factories will provide production support to Apple, contrary to previous claims that highlighted the use of Indian workplaces to facilitate upcoming manufacturing. Meanwhile, Apple has significantly expanded production unit facilities in India over the past couple of years. 

Final Thoughts  

The excitement surrounding the foldable iPhone is already building despite any official confirmation from the tech giant. Now, Apple fans are eagerly waiting for next Autumn, when the foldable iPhone alongside other iPhone 18 series models is expected to launch.  

If Apple manages to bring advanced under-screen camera technology and a refined design in its first attempt, the foldable market could look very different by the time the iPhone Fold arrives.