Apple is expected to enter the foldable smartphone space in 2026, potentially launching a foldable iPhone with a 7- to 8-inch display. According to JPMorgan analyst Samik Chatterjee, the design may resemble Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series, indicating Apple’s plans to compete directly in the growing foldable market. This could mark a major shift in the iPhone lineup, possibly debuting as part of the iPhone 18 series.
CNBC via 9to5 Mac – JPmorgan predicts iPhone fold in Sept 2026 at $2000
DCS actually commented on this, how the diameter has changed slightly from his previous itteration of the prototype.
it is now expected to have 7.8″ inner display with 5.5″ outer display. pic.twitter.com/8kPnHudDmt
— ᵀᴱᵁᴿᴱˣˣ⁹⁸⁰⁰- (@TRX9800_) July 30, 2025
Apple is reportedly developing two foldable devices, one likely to be a smartphone and the other possibly a tablet or hybrid product, according to the analyst. These foldables are expected to launch in late 2026, depending on product maturity and market readiness. Both devices are expected to feature OLED displays, aligning with current high-end trends in foldable tech.
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The foldable iPhone may adopt a book-style folding design similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z Fold 7, launched this month, features a 7.6-inch inner display and a 6.3-inch outer screen—both with 120Hz refresh rates—and showcases a more durable hinge, enhanced brightness, and improved usability in outdoor settings. Apple’s foldable could follow a similar philosophy, blending smartphone portability with tablet functionality.
With leaks of the next iPhone 17 surfacing, JPMorgan is already eyeing the iPhone 18 range. They say it will feature Apple’s first foldable device, with a 7.8-inch internal display and a price point of $1999.
Does a foldable iPhone excite you, or are you Android4lyf? pic.twitter.com/6aaTxjw2b7
— NAG (@nagcoza) July 30, 2025
Though Apple has not officially confirmed any foldable plans, Chatterjee’s note suggests a serious internal effort. The company is said to be working with display and hardware partners on advanced components like strengthened hinges and flexible OLEDs. However, the analyst warned of potential delays due to supply chain or technical challenges, meaning timelines could still shift.
Additionally, Apple’s first foldable iPhone is rumored to feature a 7.8-inch inward-folding, crease-free display, complemented by a 5.5-inch outer screen, reported MacRumours. The device is expected to sport a titanium chassis, a durable hinge made with Liquid Metal, dual rear cameras, and Touch ID instead of Face ID—marking a major design shift from current iPhones.
Meanwhile, Apple is preparing for the iPhone 17 launch this September, with reports hinting at a new “iPhone 17 Air” model. This version is expected to be the lightest and slimmest iPhone to date, indicating that Apple continues to innovate across both conventional and emerging device categories.
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