The foldable smartphone market has been growing rapidly over the past few years, with major brands pushing the limits of design and innovation. Now, the biggest name in the industry appears ready to enter the foldable arena. Apple is reportedly preparing to launch its first foldable iPhone, though recent reports suggest the much-anticipated device may face delays.
For years, the idea of a foldable iPhone has circulated among tech enthusiasts and industry analysts. While competitors steadily released their own devices and gained market share, Apple remained silent, focusing instead on refining its traditional smartphone lineup. That silence now seems to be ending.
According to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple had initially planned to unveil the foldable iPhone in September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. However, a separate report by Nikkei Asia indicates that the launch could be delayed due to engineering challenges during the testing phase. The device may now arrive in December or even be pushed to next year if adjustments take longer than expected.
Apple has not officially confirmed the product. When approached for comment, company representatives did not provide a response, and as with most Apple-related leaks, the company continues to maintain strict secrecy. Still, supply chain sources cited in the Nikkei Asia report suggest that unexpected technical issues during engineering tests have slowed progress, requiring additional time for refinement.
Despite the uncertainty, reports from within Apple’s supply chain indicate that trial production has already begun. Key hardware, design, and specification decisions are believed to have been finalised, and test units may soon be distributed internally among Apple engineers and employees for evaluation.
Leaked specifications provide a glimpse into what the foldable iPhone could look like. The device is expected to adopt a book-style folding design similar to existing foldable smartphones in the market. When closed, the outer display may measure around 5.5 inches, expanding to approximately 7.8 inches when unfolded, with a 4:3 aspect ratio aimed at improving multitasking and media consumption.
The phone is also expected to feature Apple’s premium build quality, likely combining titanium and aluminium in its frame. In an interesting shift, reports suggest the device may bring back Touch ID instead of relying solely on Face ID, possibly to accommodate the foldable design and improve usability.
On the performance side, the foldable iPhone is rumoured to be powered by Apple’s next-generation A20 chip and supported by 12GB of RAM, positioning it as a high-end flagship device. The expected price is around $2,000, placing it firmly in the premium segment of the foldable smartphone market.
If launched successfully, the foldable iPhone could reshape competition in the industry. Apple’s entry would not only intensify the race in foldable technology but also push the segment further into the mainstream. However, as with many Apple products, perfection and timing remain crucial.
