iPhone Fold coming in 2026 - Apple starts sourcing materials Apfelpatient

Apple is actively working on a foldable iPhone. Recent indications from the supply chain suggest that initial production steps have begun. The goal is a market launch in 2026 – likely as part of the iPhone 18 lineup. Internal preparations are already in full swing.

Foldable smartphones have been around for years. Samsung led the way with its Z series, and other manufacturers like Huawei, Oppo, and Honor are also in the market. Apple took its time. But now there are increasing indications that an "iPhone Fold" is actually within reach. Apple is beginning to procure key components – a typical step before mass production. The information comes from reliable sources within the Chinese supply chain.

Early parts procurement is underway

According to a Chinese source with insight into Apple's supply chain, who goes by the name "Fixed Focus Digital" on the Weibo platform, Apple is currently securing key components for its first foldable iPhone. The aim is apparently to minimize production risks and be prepared for a smooth market launch. Some components—such as hinges or flexible displays—have high failure rates and require long lead times. Therefore, stockpiling these components early makes sense.

The current phase is considered pre-production. This involves not only test samples, but also the ramp-up production of individual components before actual mass production begins.

Display and form factor: book instead of flip phone

The iPhone Fold is said to be based on Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold in its design. When closed, a 5.5-inch OLED display is available on the outside. This can be used as a standalone screen. When unfolded, a 7.8-inch inner display unfolds, which is more reminiscent of a small iPad in size.

According to sources, the inner display will be virtually wrinkle-free. An under-display camera is also rumored. The outer display, however, is expected to feature a classic punch-hole camera. Apple is apparently foregoing Face ID. Instead, Touch ID will be used, integrated into the side button.

Materials: Titanium, aluminum, stainless steel and liquid metal

Apple is using a combination of materials for the iPhone Fold's casing. Analyst Jeff Pu mentions titanium and aluminum. Well-known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo adds that stainless steel could also be used. The hinges, in particular, are expected to be made of a Liquidmetal-based alloy. The goal is to achieve maximum durability and stability while keeping the weight to a minimum.

When unfolded, the device is said to be only 4.5 mm thin. This would make it thinner than current iPad models. With such a slim design, the choice of materials plays a crucial role in preventing deformation while still ensuring stability.

Camera equipment and biometric authentication

The back features a dual-camera system. The main camera and ultra-wide-angle camera are expected to be similar to those in other iPhone models, although no confirmed technical specifications are yet available. The front-facing camera on the outer display will be integrated as a punch-hole solution. The inner display is said to house a camera hidden beneath the screen.

Authentication is not done via Face ID, but rather with a side-mounted Touch ID. This is likely due to the space required for the TrueDepth sensor, which is difficult to accommodate in such a thin and foldable device.

Market launch in September 2026

The iPhone Fold is expected to be part of the iPhone 18 lineup, launching in September 2026. This timeframe aligns with Apple's usual release cycles. With this project, Apple is entering the foldable device market for the first time – not as a pioneer, but with its characteristic focus on thoughtful design, robustness, and integration into the existing Apple ecosystem.

Entering the foldable category is technologically challenging. Apple is apparently only taking this step now because display technology, hinge manufacturing, and materials science have finally reached the necessary level.

iPhone Fold is about to start production

Apple is making concrete preparations for the launch of a foldable iPhone. The supply chain is already delivering the first components required for a device with a foldable OLED screen, complex hinges, and high-quality materials such as titanium and Liquidmetal. The device will be visually and functionally similar to the Galaxy Z Fold and is slated for release in September 2026 as part of the iPhone 18 series. With a foldable 7.8-inch inner display, a 5.5-inch outer display, and an exceptionally thin design, Apple is entering a new device category. (Photo by seveniwe / Bigstockphoto)