Apple’s Foldable iPhone: Apple is reportedly preparing to unveil its first-ever foldable iPhone next year, marking the company’s long-awaited entry into the foldable smartphone market. According to a new report from Fubon Research, the device—widely referred to as the iPhone Fold—could become the most expensive iPhone Apple has ever released.
A Record-Breaking Price Tag
Fubon’s analysis suggests that Apple may price the foldable iPhone at $2,399 (around ₹2,15,000) in the US. This pricing would not only surpass the cost of every previous iPhone but also make it the most expensive foldable smartphone in the industry.
For comparison:
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 launched at $1,999 (~₹1,78,000).
- Earlier rumours suggested Apple’s foldable could fall between $2,000 and $2,500.
As usual, the India pricing is expected to be significantly higher.
Why the Foldable iPhone Could Be So Expensive
The high price is reportedly driven by the premium components Apple is using:
- An almost crease-free foldable display, which is more expensive than conventional OLED panels.
- A high-end hinge mechanism designed to ensure durability and smooth folding.
These two components alone are said to push the phone toward the upper end of expected market pricing.
Expected Demand and Market Outlook
Despite the steep price, Fubon Research estimates that Apple could sell around 5.4 million units in 2026. The report adds that global smartphone demand may decline that year, with foldables becoming the “only spotlight” in the market.
iPhone Fold: Rumoured Specifications
Based on leaks and industry reports:
Displays
- 7.8-inch OLED inner display
- 5.5-inch OLED cover display
Cameras
- A 24 MP under-display selfie camera for the inner screen (as per JP Morgan)
Security
- Expected to use Touch ID, not Face ID
Battery
- At least 5,400 mAh, the largest battery ever in an iPhone
Performance
- Powered by the A20 Pro chipset, similar to what’s expected in the iPhone 18 Pro series
Launch Timeline
The foldable iPhone is expected to debut in September 2026, launching alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models. This aligns with rumours that Apple plans to shift to two major iPhone launches each year.
According to leaks:
- iPhone Fold + iPhone 18 Pro → September 2026
- iPhone 18, iPhone 18e & next-gen iPhone Air → Early 2027