The iPhone Fold is drawing near, bringing with it a topic that's on everyone's mind in the industry. Apple's first foldable iPhone is expected to run exclusively on eSIM. The physical SIM slot will be eliminated. This decision is related to the extremely compact internal design and is generating considerable discussion, particularly in China. At the same time, the device is expected to feature new display and camera technologies that should clearly position it at the forefront of the premium segment.
The iPhone Fold is one of Apple's most exciting projects of the coming years. Early reports mention a very thin casing, a book-style design, and an internal display almost the size of an iPad mini. On the downside, it faces the same challenges that plagued the iPhone Air. Less internal space means technical compromises. The removal of the SIM card slot is one of the most noticeable and is becoming the central point of discussion.
design and form factor
The iPhone Fold is expected to be released in late 2026 or early 2027. Leaks indicate a 5.5-inch external display and an approximately 7.8-inch internal panel that becomes visible when the device is unfolded. This gives the device a book-like design, and according to Mark Gurman, it should be as thin as two titanium iPhone Airs side by side. This design explains the limited internal space and the need to eliminate physical components like the SIM card slot.
eSIM as a solid foundation
Instant Digital, a well-known Chinese leaker, considers it highly likely that the iPhone Fold will exclusively support eSIM. This assessment aligns with Gurman and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. From a technical perspective, the move makes sense. A foldable hinge, flexible display layers, additional sensors, and a compact casing severely limit the available space. The decision to use eSIM is therefore primarily a matter of space.
Problems in the Chinese market
Especially in China, eSIM has clear disadvantages. Users there prefer physical SIM activation and dual-SIM slots. Rapid resale and frequent device testing are an important part of smartphone culture there. These processes require quick manual SIM swapping without the network operator's involvement. A pure eSIM solution works differently and is heavily dependent on provider support.
The problem is particularly evident with the iPhone Air. This model is also only equipped with eSIM and relies on cooperation with China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom. Activation is only possible with their assistance and requires a visit to a store. While two active eSIMs are possible, the process remains complicated. These hurdles have led to subdued demand in China.
Parallels to the iPhone Air and international reluctance
Globally, the iPhone Air also fell short of expectations. Many buyers were less interested in the slim design and focused on the compromises. These included shorter battery life, a single rear camera, and the complete lack of physical SIM cards. A similar risk is emerging for the iPhone Fold.
New technologies in the iPhone Fold
Despite these hurdles, the iPhone Fold brings several technical innovations. A 24-megapixel camera is planned under the display. The inner panel is intended to be free of visible creases. Both elements are meant to clearly differentiate the device from existing foldables. These advancements could prove important in balancing the discussion surrounding eSIM.
price and market position
Current reports predict a price between $2,000 and $2,500 for the US. This would make the iPhone Fold the most expensive iPhone ever, clearly targeting a high-end audience. Apple is banking on a combination of a new form factor, premium materials, and advanced display technology.
iPhone Fold: A future opportunity with risks
The iPhone Fold demonstrates Apple's consistent planning for the move into the next device category. Its foldable design, display size, and new camera technologies make it technically compelling. However, its reliance on eSIM remains a significant stumbling block, particularly in markets like China. If Apple and mobile carriers can streamline activation compared to the iPhone Air, the iPhone Fold could play a major role in the premium segment. Without such improvements, however, the eSIM focus could hinder the device's progress before it can fully realize its potential. (Image: Shutterstock / Diego Maravilla)
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