- READ MORE: I tried out Apple’s latest affordable phone, the iPhone 16e
It is one of the world's leading tech companies but, unlike its rivals, Apple is yet to reveal its own folding phone design.
Now, A potential release date for the much-speculated foldable device has been suggested. iPhone has surfaced online - indicating that tech enthusiasts won't have much longer to anticipate.
Reports from Apple analysts suggest that the foldable iPhone might hit the market before the close of 2026.
The rumors indicate that Apple’s newest creation might not be budget-friendly, carrying a projected cost of $2,299.
This would push the cost of the 'iPhone Fold' up to nearly double the price of Apple’s currently priciest phone, the iPhone 16 Pro Max, with a starting price of $1,199 (or £1,199 in the UK).
Even with its steep cost, industry professionals anticipate that the introduction of foldable phones might help rescue Apple from declining sales following the letdown of Apple Intelligence.
The anticipated foldable iPhone is likely to come with a 5.5-inch external screen and a 7.7-inch internal screen, which would make it roughly equivalent in size to an iPad Mini when unfolded.
The most anticipated advancement from Apple is believed to be a novel technology enabling screens to fold seamlessly without any creases.
The supposed launch date has been shared by two separate analysts with connections to Apple’s production partners in Asia.
Firstly, Jeff Pu from GF Securities penned a letter to investors noting his insights. seen by 9to5Mac Apple is presently developing two foldable devices.
The initial one is a gadget similar to an iPhone that is expected to commence large-scale manufacturing in the latter part of 2026.
Mr Pu adds that this device 'remains on track' to enter an early stage of prototyping next month.
Besides the folding phone, Mr. Pu asserts that Apple is developing a foldable gadget featuring an 18-inch display.
The bigger choice could potentially turn into a fresh Mac or iPad model; however, precise information remains undisclosed at this moment.
Mr. Pu’s accounts align with those of seasoned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who indicated earlier this month that Apple was getting ready to release their initial folding phone in 2026.
Mr. Kuo says that the foldable gadget will include dual rear cameras, a single front camera, a high-density battery, and a Touch ID button rather than Face ID.
The second report originates from Tim Long at Barclays, who asserted in an investor note. seen by MacRumours that a folding iPhone was imminent.
After consulting with hardware manufacturers in Asia, Mr. Long thinks that the foldable iPhone will likely become Apple’s priciest smartphone ever.
Mr Long claims that the foldable iPhone would start at $2,299 which, although extremely expensive, reflects the premium cost that folding phones typically command.
For instance, the foldable Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 has a price tag of $1,899 (£1,799), roughly twice as much as the more affordable Samsung Galaxy S25, which begins at $799.99 (£799).
Even though Mr. Long thinks that the cost could deter potential buyers, experts remain optimistic that the foldable iPhone will be sufficient to boost Apple’s revenue.
In his letter to investors, Mr. Pu mentioned that Apple’s inability to provide advanced features such as an improved Siri voice assistant under the umbrella of Apple Intelligence has diminished customer enthusiasm for new iPhone models.
As the iPhone 16 was advertised as being specially designed for Apple Intelligence, Mr. Pu indicates that consumers saw little value in opting for the more expensive model given its mediocre features.
Nevertheless, Mr. Pu asserts that the firm will rebound in 2026 irrespective of its advancements with Apple Intelligence due to the launch of foldable devices.
Initially considered a niche market, Aصند Apple now confronts significant rivalry in the realm of foldable devices. From brands such as Samsung, Google, along with Chinese companies like Xiaomi and Huawei.
The Mobile World Congress (MWC) earlier this year was largely focused on progressively eccentric foldable gadgets, ranging from smartphones and tablets to laptops.
Although Apple hasn't demonstrated much interest in foldable gadgets up until now, the achievements of competing products could potentially encourage the company to take action.
These reports should be considered preliminary as they stem from conversations with manufacturers and entities within the supply chain, and the specifics might still evolve.
Similarly, Apple has stayed mum regarding any potential upcoming devices and did not reply to MailOnline's request for commentary.
However, if these rumors hold up, it could indicate that Apple enthusiasts might be able to acquire an innovative foldable iPhone before the conclusion of the following year.
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