While the iPhone Air may not be the most powerful model in Apple’s lineup, it may hold important clues about the company’s long-awaited foldable iPhone. Expected to arrive in 2026, the foldable iPhone, or iPhone Fold, is rumored to carry forward the sleek and slim design found in the iPhone Air, providing a glimpse of what we can expect in terms of form factor.
A Focus on Slimness
Apple’s obsession with creating thin, lightweight devices is evident in its design approach, and the foldable iPhone will be no exception. Reports suggest that when the iPhone Fold is unfolded, it will have a profile almost identical to the iPhone Air. The challenge, of course, is that the phone will be twice as thick when folded. To maintain a slim and portable design, Apple is reportedly striving to make the iPhone Fold thinner than the Air, with some estimates suggesting a thickness of between 4.5mm to 4.8mm. This would make the iPhone Fold thinner than both the latest iPad Pro and the iPhone Air itself, setting new standards for foldable devices.
Display Expectations
One of the most exciting features of the iPhone Fold is its display setup. Sources claim the device will have a 7.5-inch internal display that folds out to provide a tablet-like experience, along with a smaller 5.5-inch external screen for quick use when the phone is folded. This dual-display system positions the foldable iPhone in between the sizes of a regular iPhone and an iPad mini, creating a unique niche for Apple in the smartphone market.
Overcoming Manufacturing Hurdles
As with any groundbreaking product, Apple is facing challenges in bringing the foldable iPhone to life. The company is reportedly working closely with suppliers, with Foxconn taking the lead on much of the assembly. There’s also talk of expanding production to India, which has already become a significant hub for iPhone manufacturing. This move would not only help Apple diversify its supply chain away from China but also strengthen its position in the global market. However, the process isn’t without its hurdles. Sourcing the necessary equipment and adjusting production lines to accommodate foldable tech are just a few of the challenges that Apple will need to overcome.
Price and Release Date
As for the price, industry insiders are predicting a hefty price tag for the iPhone Fold. With an estimated cost starting at $2,000, the device will firmly sit in the luxury category, targeting a high-end market. Apple is expected to release the iPhone Fold in the fall of 2026, which could mark the beginning of a new era for smartphone design, similar to how the original iPhone revolutionized the industry in 2007. If Apple can deliver on its promises, the iPhone Fold will surely have a significant impact on how we interact with mobile devices.