Apple has already made waves this year with the introduction of the iPhone 17 lineup and the ultra-slim iPhone Air. Recent reports indicate that the company’s next major advancement in smartphone technology is expected to debut in 2026 — its inaugural foldable iPhone. According to Bloomberg, this foldable model will likely be revealed alongside the iPhone 18 series and could potentially become Apple’s priciest iPhone to date. The report suggests that the design of the foldable device may draw heavily from the iPhone Air. At only 5.6mm thick, the iPhone Air is currently the slimmest iPhone ever released and is notable for having a titanium frame.
The foldable iPhone may mirror this design, resembling “two iPhone Airs stacked on top of one another joined by a hinge.” Bloomberg remarked, “In other words, it’s going to be super thin and a design achievement.” However, despite Apple’s reputation for innovative designs, the foldable iPhone might still be thicker than some rivals. A total thickness of 11.2mm would make it bulkier than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, which measures just 8.9mm when folded. Given Apple’s emphasis on aesthetics, analysts speculate that the company will likely strive to reduce the thickness before the final launch. Interestingly, earlier reports this month suggested that Apple could forgo Face ID for this foldable model, a decision that might help keep its slim profile.
Instead, the device may use alternative biometric authentication methods. It is rumored to include a 7.8-inch inner display for immersive experiences, complemented by a 5.5-inch outer screen for quick access when folded. On the production front, Apple has been gradually decreasing its reliance on China by moving significant manufacturing to India in recent years. The iPhone 17 and iPhone Air reflect this broader supply chain diversification. Nonetheless, Bloomberg indicates that the foldable iPhone may still involve “at least” some production in China, representing a slight deviation from the company’s recent strategy. As with all foldables, the pricing will be high.
Bloomberg’s sources predict that Apple’s foldable iPhone will start at around $2,000 (approximately ₹1,76,000), making it the most expensive iPhone ever. This price point would put the device in direct competition with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, which launched at $1,999. For consumers in India, the price is likely to be even steeper, following the trend of previous iPhone launches. While Apple has not officially confirmed any specifics, anticipation is already mounting. The foldable iPhone is expected to be a significant technological achievement and a testament to Apple’s capacity to transform the markets it enters. With a release planned for late 2026, the tech community will be closely monitoring how Apple’s first foldable device influences the future of premium smartphones.