Apple is reportedly gearing up to enter the foldable smartphone market, with its first foldable iPhone expected to launch in 2026. The device is anticipated to feature a book-style design, a crease-less hinge, and a premium titanium alloy casing. With cutting-edge AI features and a side-mounted Touch ID, Apple’s foldable iPhone is projected to be priced above Rs 2 lakh. Here’s everything we know so far.

Expected Features of Apple’s Foldable iPhone

Book-Style Foldable Display

Apple’s foldable iPhone is expected to adopt a book-style design, unlike the clamshell design seen in some foldable smartphones. The inner display is rumored to be 7.8 inches, while the outer screen may measure 5.5 inches. The highlight of this device is expected to be its crease-less hinge, which will enhance durability and visual appeal.

Premium Build and Titanium Alloy Hinge

The foldable iPhone is said to feature a titanium alloy casing for improved strength and reduced weight. Additionally, the hinge mechanism will reportedly combine stainless steel and titanium alloy to ensure durability. Bright Laser Technologies (BLT) is expected to manufacture the 3D-printed hinge and middle frame components, making this a complex yet sophisticated design.

Slim Foldable Form Factor

The device is expected to measure between 9mm to 9.5mm when folded and 4.5mm to 4.8mm when unfolded, making it one of the thinnest foldable smartphones in the market.

Side-Mounted Touch ID

Due to thickness constraints, Apple is reportedly ditching Face ID in favor of a side-mounted Touch ID sensor for biometric authentication.

Camera Setup

The foldable iPhone is rumored to come with a dual rear camera system and a single front-facing camera, which will be usable in both folded and unfolded states.

Battery and AI Features

Apple is expected to use high-density battery cells, similar to those in the upcoming iPhone 17 series, for better battery efficiency. Additionally, the device is anticipated to introduce new AI-driven features, such as:

Cross-app integration for seamless multitasking.

AI chatbot functionality, allowing users to interact with AI while using other apps in the background.

Apple’s Foldable iPhone: Expected Price and Availability

Pricing

Apple’s foldable iPhone is expected to be positioned as a premium flagship device. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the smartphone could be priced between $2,000 (Rs 1.74 lakh) and $2,500 (Rs 2.17 lakh), making it one of the most expensive iPhones ever.

Launch Timeline

Apple is expected to finalize the device specifications by Q2 2025.

Mass production is likely to begin in Q4 2026, with an estimated shipment of 3-5 million units in its first year.

A second-generation foldable iPhone is already rumored for 2027, with higher shipments of around 20 million units.

Conclusion

Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market could bring significant advancements in durability, AI capabilities, and premium design. While details remain limited, the 2026 launch window suggests Apple is taking a cautious yet strategic approach to foldable technology. With a high price tag, a crease-free display, and next-gen AI features, the foldable iPhone could redefine the premium smartphone segment. More details are expected to surface as Apple moves closer to production, so stay tuned for further updates.