The tech world is buzzing with anticipation for Apple’s potential entry into the foldable smartphone market. While competitors like Samsung and Google have been dominating the foldable scene for years, Apple has been characteristically cautious, waiting to perfect the technology before making its move. Recent leaks suggest that 2026 could finally be the year we see a foldable iPhone, potentially revolutionizing how we interact with our devices. In this article, we’ll dive into all the credible leaks and rumors surrounding this innovative device. For good measure—and to keep you up to date on Apple’s near-term plans—we’ll also briefly discuss the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup, set to launch imminently.

The Foldable iPhone: What We Know From the Leaks

Rumors of a foldable iPhone have circulated for years, but 2025 has seen a surge in concrete details from reliable analysts and supply chain sources. The consensus points to a 2026 launch, aligning with Apple’s typical September release cycle for new iPhones.

One of the most prominent leaks comes from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who predicts the foldable iPhone will debut in 2026, with Apple aiming to ship 8 to 10 million units in the first year, ramping up to 25 million in 2027.
Kuo also mentions a larger-screened foldable iPad following in 2028, indicating Apple’s broader push into flexible displays.
This timeline is echoed across multiple sources, including JPMorgan analysts who forecast a September 2026 release as part of the iPhone 18 family, with a premium price tag of $1,999.

Design-wise, the foldable iPhone is expected to adopt a book-style form factor, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series, rather than a flip phone like the Galaxy Z Flip.
Leaks suggest a crease-free 7.8-inch inner display, leveraging advanced screen technology from Samsung Display to minimize the visible fold line that plagues many current foldables.
This would make it a standout in terms of durability and aesthetics, addressing common complaints about foldable phones.

Prototyping is reportedly well underway. Sources indicate Apple has already produced prototypes, with mass production slated for summer 2026.

The device is rumored to combine compact portability with a larger unfolded screen for multitasking, potentially integrating seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem for features like enhanced Continuity and Apple Pencil support.

On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the hype is building. Users and tech enthusiasts are sharing predictions, with one post outlining Apple’s three-year plan: iPhone 17 Air in 2025, foldable iPhone in 2026, and a curved-glass iPhone 20 for the 20th anniversary in 2027.
Another leak from analyst Kuo was amplified on X, confirming the 2026 timeline and sparking discussions about whether it will be worth the wait over current foldables.
Some skeptics question if the rumors are overhyped, but the volume of consistent reports from credible leakers like Ross Young and DigiTimes lends weight to the speculation.

Pricing remains a hot topic—expect it to start above $2,000, positioning it as a luxury item rather than a mass-market phone.
This aligns with Apple’s strategy of entering new categories at the high end, much like the Vision Pro headset.

iPhone 17: A Quick Look at Apple’s 2025 Lineup

Before the foldable iPhone steals the spotlight, Apple is gearing up for the iPhone 17 series, set to debut tomorrow (September 9, 2025) at the “Awe Dropping” event.
The lineup introduces a sleek iPhone 17 Air, touted as the thinnest iPhone ever at ~5.5mm, featuring a 6.6-inch OLED display with 120Hz ProMotion and a 48MP rear camera.
Battery upgrades are a highlight, with the standard model at 3,692 mAh, the Air at 3,149 mAh, the Pro at 4,252 mAh, and the Pro Max hitting 5,088 mAh—the first iPhone to cross 5,000 mAh.

The iPhone 17 series also promises camera enhancements like 8x optical zoom and 8K video, powered by the A19 Pro chip.
Posts on X highlight excitement for the battery boosts, with users anticipating all-day performance.
Starting at ~$899, the iPhone 17 offers a more accessible upgrade for those not waiting for the foldable.

Apple’s Foldable Future and Beyond

The foldable iPhone represents Apple’s bold step into a maturing market, potentially setting new standards for build quality and software integration. With leaks pointing to a crease-free display and premium pricing, it could appeal to power users seeking a hybrid phone-tablet experience. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 bridges the gap with practical upgrades like bigger batteries and advanced cameras, ensuring Apple stays competitive in 2025.

As always, take these rumors with a grain of salt until Apple officially unveils them—but the pattern of leaks from trusted sources like Kuo and supply chain reports suggests we’re on the cusp of something exciting. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the 2026 launch. What do you think—will you hold out for the foldable, or grab an iPhone 17 tomorrow?