Apple is preparing to launch its first foldable smartphone in September 2026, marking the company’s long-awaited entry into the foldable phone market. The iPhone Fold will debut alongside the iPhone 18 series with a book-style design featuring a 7.8-inch creaseless display and premium pricing between $2,000 and $2,500.
This move comes as the US foldable smartphone market is projected to grow 68% year-over-year in 2025, with Apple’s entry expected to “redefine consumer expectations and push foldables into a new mainstream adoption phase” according to Counterpoint Research. Apple is also planning to skip the iPhone 19 designation entirely, jumping straight to iPhone 20 in 2027 to commemorate the smartphone’s 20th anniversary.
Table of Contents
What is the iPhone Fold?
Apple’s Entry Into Foldable Market
The iPhone Fold represents Apple’s first venture into foldable smartphone technology, arriving approximately seven years after Samsung pioneered the category in 2019. Unlike Apple’s typical strategy of entering markets early and redefining them, the company has waited for foldable technology to mature before committing to its own design. Industry analysts suggest this delayed entry allows Apple to learn from competitors’ mistakes while perfecting the hardware and software integration that defines the Apple experience.
Apple remains “the sole major smartphone manufacturer without a foldable model,” making the iPhone Fold a significant strategic move to maintain competitiveness in the premium smartphone segment. The device is expected to integrate seamlessly with Apple’s existing ecosystem, including iCloud, iMessage, and the App Store.
Book-Style Design Philosophy
The iPhone Fold will feature a book-style folding mechanism that opens horizontally, like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series rather than the vertical clamshell design of flip phones. When opened, the device reveals a large 7.8-inch flexible OLED display roughly equivalent to an iPad mini in size, while the outer 5.5-inch screen allows for standard smartphone use when closed. This dual-display approach aims to provide tablet functionality in a pocketable form factor.
iPhone Fold Release Date and Availability
September 2026 Launch Window
Multiple industry sources confirm Apple plans to unveil the iPhone Fold in September 2026 during its annual fall product launch event. The timing aligns with Apple’s traditional iPhone release cycle, suggesting the foldable will follow the same announcement-to-availability pattern as standard iPhone models. Manufacturing preparations are reportedly underway with Samsung Display confirmed as the primary supplier for the flexible LTPO+ OLED panels.
Omdia Chief Researcher Heo Moo-yeol revealed at a Seoul conference that Apple’s 2026 lineup will include the iPhone 18e and standard models, with the iPhone Fold positioned as the premium flagship offering. Pre-orders are expected to begin immediately following the announcement, with retail availability approximately two weeks later.
Part of iPhone 18 Series
The iPhone Fold will launch as part of the iPhone 18 generation rather than as a standalone product line, maintaining numerical consistency with Apple’s existing naming convention. This integration suggests Apple views foldable technology as a premium variant within its standard lineup rather than an entirely separate product category. The iPhone 18 series is expected to include traditional models alongside the Fold, offering consumers multiple form factors at different price points.
iPhone Fold Price and Models
Expected Pricing Range
The iPhone Fold will carry a premium price tag between $2,000 and $2,500, with most industry analysts clustering estimates around $2,000 to $2,300. This pricing positions the device at the absolute top of the smartphone market, competing directly with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 and other ultra-premium foldables. The high cost reflects the expensive flexible display technology, complex hinge mechanism, and advanced manufacturing processes required for foldable devices.
Initial models will likely offer multiple storage configurations, with base storage starting at 512GB according to early specifications. Higher-capacity variants could push prices closer to the $2,500 upper estimate. At $2,000, the iPhone Fold would be approximately $800 more expensive than the current iPhone 17 Pro Max, creating a significant price gap within Apple’s product lineup.
Premium Positioning Strategy
Apple’s pricing strategy reflects its positioning of the iPhone Fold as a luxury device targeting “high-income segments” rather than mass-market consumers. Counterpoint Research notes that Apple’s entry will “instantly expand consumer awareness and accelerate replacement demand” among premium buyers who have hesitated to adopt foldables from other brands. The company is betting that its brand loyalty and ecosystem integration will justify the premium over existing foldable options.
iPhone Fold Specifications and Features
Display Technology
The iPhone Fold features a 7.8-inch primary display using LTPO+ flexible OLED technology supplied by Samsung Display. The main screen offers a resolution of 1920 x 2713 pixels with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and approximately 428 PPI pixel density. Industry reports emphasize that Apple has prioritized developing a “creaseless” display that eliminates the visible fold line that plagues current foldable phones.
The external cover screen measures 5.5 inches, providing enough usable space for one-handed operation when the device is closed. Both displays support HDR10+ and Dolby Vision content with peak brightness reaching 2,000 nits for outdoor visibility. The screen-to-body ratio is estimated at 90.6%, maximizing display area while minimizing bezels.
Camera System
The iPhone Fold will reportedly feature a dual rear camera system rather than the triple-lens arrangement found on Pro-model iPhones. Specifications suggest 48MP sensors for wide-angle and telephoto lenses, maintaining compatibility with Apple’s computational photography features including Night mode and Photographic Styles. The simplified camera array helps manage the device’s thickness and weight while keeping manufacturing costs somewhat controlled.
Front-facing cameras will use under-display technology to minimize visual interruption on the large internal screen. This represents a significant technical achievement, as current under-display cameras typically suffer from reduced image quality compared to traditional punch-hole or notch designs.
Biometric Authentication
Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests the iPhone Fold may forgo Face ID in favor of Touch ID due to space constraints within the foldable design. This would mark a return to fingerprint authentication for flagship iPhones, though implementation details remain unclear. Possible locations include an in-display fingerprint sensor on the outer screen or a side-mounted sensor integrated into the power button.
The shift away from Face ID addresses practical challenges with foldable form factors, where the front-facing sensor array required for facial recognition becomes difficult to accommodate without compromising display size or bezels.
Battery and Performance
Battery capacity is expected to range from 5,000 to 5,500 mAh, significantly larger than standard iPhones to power dual displays and compensate for the power demands of foldable technology. The device will feature Apple’s A19 Pro chipset with 12GB to 16GB of RAM, providing sufficient performance headroom for multitasking and the demanding software features that leverage the large display.
iPhone Fold Design and Build Quality
Materials and Construction
The iPhone Fold will use a titanium-aluminum frame construction, balancing strength with weight considerations critical for foldable devices. Glass panels protect the front and back when closed, though the flexible inner display uses specialized ultra-thin glass or polymer materials to enable folding. Apple has reportedly worked extensively on hinge durability, with some industry sources suggesting collaboration with Amphenol as an alternative hinge supplier to ensure long-term reliability.
Hinge Mechanism
The hinge represents the most critical engineering challenge for any foldable phone, and Apple has invested years developing a mechanism that balances smoothness, durability, and the ability to eliminate screen creases. The hinge must withstand hundreds of thousands of open-close cycles while maintaining screen tension and alignment. Apple’s later entry into the foldable market has allowed engineers to study and improve upon existing designs from Samsung, Huawei, and other manufacturers.
How iPhone Fold Compares to Samsung Galaxy Fold
Display Size and Quality
The iPhone Fold’s 7.8-inch main display closely matches the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7’s 8-inch screen, putting both devices in similar tablet-replacement territory. However, Apple’s emphasis on a creaseless display could provide a significant advantage over Samsung’s current generation, which still shows a visible fold line under certain lighting conditions. Samsung’s Fold 7 offers 2,600 nits peak brightness compared to the iPhone Fold’s expected 2,000 nits, though real-world usability differences may be minimal.
Price Comparison
Both devices occupy the $2,000+ ultra-premium segment, with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and iPhone Fold expected to have similar base prices. Samsung has the advantage of offering a more established ecosystem of foldable-optimized apps and several generations of refinement based on user feedback. Apple counters with tighter hardware-software integration and its broader ecosystem including Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch.
Ecosystem Integration
Apple’s primary competitive advantage lies in ecosystem integration rather than raw hardware specifications. Features like Continuity, Handoff, Universal Clipboard, and iCloud synchronization create seamless experiences across devices that Samsung cannot fully replicate despite offering comparable individual products. For existing Apple users, the iPhone Fold represents a natural evolution within their existing digital ecosystem.
Market Impact and Predictions
US Foldable Market Growth
The US foldable smartphone market is projected to grow 68% year-over-year in 2025, driven by “broader form factor adoption and stronger momentum from multiple brands”. Samsung currently maintains market leadership with approximately 35.4% global share in 2025, down from 45.2% in 2024 as competitors like Huawei, Honor, and Motorola gain ground. The overall foldable market reached 19.8 million units in 2025, representing approximately 1.6% of total smartphone sales.
Mainstream Adoption Catalyst
Counterpoint Research Associate Director Liz Lee stated that “Apple’s eventual arrival in 2026 will not only expand the market but also cement foldables as a mainstream premium smartphone format”. Analysts predict that Apple’s brand influence and marketing power will dramatically increase consumer awareness and drive adoption among users who have been hesitant to try foldables from other manufacturers. Research firm Omdia projects that 2026 will be a “pivotal year” for foldable smartphones, with the market expected to surge 51% following Apple’s entry.
iPhone 20 and Apple’s Anniversary Strategy
Skipping iPhone 19
Apple plans to skip the iPhone 19 designation entirely in 2027, jumping directly to iPhone 20 to commemorate the smartphone’s 20th anniversary. This mirrors the company’s strategy in 2017 when it skipped iPhone 9 to launch the iPhone X for the device’s 10th anniversary. Omdia Chief Researcher Heo Moo-yeol revealed that Apple will release the iPhone 18e and iPhone 20 in the first half of 2027, followed by iPhone 20 Pro, Pro Max, iPhone Air, and second-generation iPhone Fold in the fall.
20th Anniversary Plans
The original iPhone launched in June 2007, making 2027 the 20th anniversary year. The iPhone 20 is expected to feature significant design changes, potentially including a bezel-free display that wraps around all four edges. This anniversary edition will mark another major milestone in iPhone evolution, following the pattern established with the iPhone X redesign. The combination of the iPhone Fold’s introduction in 2026 and the iPhone 20’s revolutionary design in 2027 represents Apple’s most ambitious product roadmap in recent years.
Comparison Table
| Feature | iPhone Fold (2026) | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 | Google Pixel Fold 2 |
| Main Display | 7.8″ LTPO+ OLED | 8.0″ AMOLED | 7.6″ OLED |
| Cover Display | 5.5″ OLED | 6.5″ AMOLED | 5.8″ OLED |
| Crease Visibility | Minimal/None | Visible | Moderate |
| Price Range | $2,000-$2,500 | $1,900-$2,000 | $1,800-$1,900 |
| Processor | A19 Pro | Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 | Tensor G4 |
| RAM | 12-16GB | 12GB | 12GB |
| Rear Cameras | Dual 48MP | Triple 50MP | Triple 48MP |
| Battery | 5,000-5,500mAh | 4,800mAh | 4,650mAh |
| Biometrics | Touch ID | Side-mounted fingerprint | Face unlock + fingerprint |
| Water Resistance | TBD | IPX8 | IPX8 |
| Release Date | September 2026 | Released 2025 | Released 2025 |
Should You Wait for the iPhone Fold?
The decision to wait for the iPhone Fold depends on your specific needs and budget. Current iPhone users are satisfied with traditional form factors and may find little reason to upgrade, especially given the $2,000+ price premium. However, early adopters, tech enthusiasts, and users seeking maximum screen real estate in a portable package will find the iPhone Fold compelling.
Consider waiting if you value cutting-edge technology and don’t mind paying a premium for first-generation products. Be aware that first-generation devices often have higher prices and may have minor issues that get refined in subsequent versions. If budget is a concern, the 2027 iPhone 20 series or second-generation iPhone Fold might offer better value with improved features and potentially lower pricing.
Featured Snippet Boxes
When will the Apple iPhone Fold be released?
The Apple iPhone Fold is expected to launch in September 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 series. Multiple industry sources confirm this timeline, with pre-orders likely beginning immediately after the announcement and retail availability following approximately two weeks later.
How much will the iPhone Fold cost?
The iPhone Fold will be priced between $2,000 and $2,500, with most analysts estimating around $2,000 to $2,300 for the base model. This positions it as Apple’s most expensive iPhone and places it in direct competition with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series.
What size is the iPhone Fold display?
The iPhone Fold features a 7.8-inch main display when opened, roughly equivalent to an iPad mini in size, and a 5.5-inch outer screen for use when closed. Apple has emphasized developing a creaseless display that eliminates the visible fold line common in current foldable phones.
Will Apple skip iPhone 19?
Yes, Apple plans to skip the iPhone 19 designation entirely and jump directly to iPhone 20 in 2027 to commemorate the smartphone’s 20th anniversary. This mirrors the company’s strategy when it skipped iPhone 9 to launch the iPhone X for the 10th anniversary in 2017.
Does the iPhone Fold have Face ID or Touch ID?
Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests the iPhone Fold may use Touch ID instead of Face ID due to space constraints in the foldable design. This would mark a return to fingerprint authentication for flagship iPhones, though exact implementation details remain unconfirmed.
How does the iPhone Fold compare to Samsung Galaxy Fold?
Both devices offer similar 7.8 – 8-inch displays and $2,000+ pricing. The iPhone Fold’s advantages include a reportedly creaseless display and seamless Apple ecosystem integration, while Samsung offers a more mature foldable platform with several generations of refinement and broader app optimization.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is the iPhone Fold coming out?
The iPhone Fold is scheduled to launch in September 2026 as part of the iPhone 18 series lineup, according to multiple industry reports and analyst predictions.
Will the iPhone Fold have a visible crease?
Apple is reportedly developing creaseless display technology that eliminates or significantly reduces the visible folding line that appears on current foldable smartphones, representing a major technical advancement.
What colors will the iPhone Fold be available in?
Official color options have not been announced, but Apple typically offers its premium devices in Space Black, Silver, Gold, and potentially exclusive new finishes for flagship products.
Can the iPhone Fold use a regular iPhone case?
No, the iPhone Fold will require specially designed cases that accommodate its foldable form factor and hinge mechanism, like how Samsung Galaxy Fold devices need custom accessories.
Will the iPhone Fold support 5G?
Yes, the iPhone Fold will include full 5G connectivity across all major bands, along with Wi-Fi 6E/7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for wireless connectivity.
How durable is the iPhone Fold screen?
While specific durability ratings haven’t been confirmed, Apple has invested heavily in hinge engineering and display protection to ensure the device withstands hundreds of thousands of open-close cycles.
Will there be an iPhone 19?
No, Apple plans to skip iPhone 19 entirely and jump directly to iPhone 20 in 2027 to mark the smartphone’s 20th anniversary, like how the company skipped iPhone 9 for the iPhone X.
Can I trade in my current iPhone for iPhone Fold?
While Apple hasn’t announced specific trade-in programs, the company typically accepts previous iPhone models for credit toward new purchases, with values depending on the model and condition.
Will iPhone Fold apps work differently?
Apps will need to be optimized for the larger foldable display, like how iPad apps differ from iPhone versions. Apple will likely provide developer tools to enable split-screen multitasking and other foldable-specific features.
Is the iPhone Fold waterproof?
Water resistance specifications haven’t been officially confirmed, but durability remains a challenge for foldable phones, with most current models offering lower IP ratings than traditional smartphones.
Source: CNET