×
Photo via CNETNext

Apple’s Foldable iPhone Could Launch Sooner Than Expected

58% reliable
11 mins
16.57K views
Foldable iPhone
  • Apple is reportedly turning the foldable iPhone concept into reality, new leaks suggest.
  • Apple has reportedly begun formal development with major display manufacturers.
  • Samsung is racing to enhance its foldable lineup in response to Apple’s latest moves.

Apple is reportedly accelerating its plans to enter the foldable smartphone market, signaling a significant shift in the competitive landscape dominated by Samsung. According to recent leaks, the tech giant has moved the foldable iPhone from concept to active development, potentially setting the stage for a 2026 or 2027 release.A concept of Apple's upcoming Foldable iPhone, potentially launching in 2026 or 2027.Photo via Lifewire // A concept of Apple's upcoming Foldable iPhone, potentially launching in 2026 or 2027.

Formal Development Initiated

Renowned tipster Yeux1122, shared via @Jukanlosreve on X, has revealed that Apple's foldable iPhone has entered the "formal development process" with display manufacturers such as LG Display and Samsung Display. This information, sourced from a "supply chain source," suggests that Apple is no longer merely exploring foldable technology but is committed to bringing a foldable iPhone to market.

"Apple was previously responding piecemeal to technology and key requirements," the leak indicates, implying a strategic shift towards dedicated development and production.

Implications for the Smartphone Market

The advancement of Apple's foldable iPhone could have far-reaching consequences for the smartphone industry. As Apple traditionally sets trends in technology, its entry into the foldable segment is likely to accelerate adoption and innovation across the board.

Samsung's Strategic Response

In anticipation of Apple's move, Samsung is reportedly expediting the development of its own foldable devices. This includes advancing the launch of next year's Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7, as well as introducing new form factors like the anticipated tri-fold phone. Additionally, Samsung is planning to release the Galaxy Z Fold 6 FE, aiming to offer a more affordable entry-level foldable option to the market.

Yeux1122 notes, "Samsung is expected to bring forward the development of its own foldables to counter the threat of a folding iPhone," highlighting the competitive tension between the two tech giants.Apple has reportedly brought forward the release date of their first-ever foldable display device, and Samsung is taking note.Photo via NotebookCheck // Apple has reportedly brought forward the release date of their first-ever foldable display device, and Samsung is taking note.

Design and Features: What to Expect

While specific details about the foldable iPhone remain scarce, previous rumors and leaks offer some insights:

  • Self-Healing Screen: Enhanced durability features to address common foldable phone concerns.
  • Wrap-Around Design: Aesthetic and functional design elements that differentiate it from existing foldable models.

These features aim to position Apple's foldable iPhone as a premium device, potentially boosting iPad sales and reinforcing Apple's market dominance.

Projected Launch Timeline

Given that Apple is only now entering the formal development phase, industry analysts estimate that the foldable iPhone may debut in late 2026 or 2027. This timeline aligns with previous predictions and suggests that Apple is aiming for a launch window that coincides with the release of the iPhone 18.

Expert Commentary

The move towards a foldable iPhone underscores Apple's commitment to innovation and its ability to adapt to emerging market trends. If successful, this could mark a significant milestone in smartphone technology, offering consumers a new form factor that blends the functionality of traditional smartphones with the versatility of tablets.

"A foldable iPhone feels like an obvious win for Apple," commented a tech analyst, emphasizing the potential impact on both the smartphone and tablet markets.

A foldable iPhone feels like an obvious win for Apple.

Rumors are mixed about whether Apple will unveil a book-style foldable or a flip-style foldable iPhone first, or potentially both at once.Photo via TechRadar // Rumors are mixed about whether Apple will unveil a book-style foldable or a flip-style foldable iPhone first, or potentially both at once.

Conclusion

Apple's reported entry into the foldable smartphone arena represents a pivotal moment in mobile technology. As the company transitions from concept to development, the ripple effects across the industry are already evident, with competitors like Samsung ramping up their own foldable offerings. As consumers eagerly await official confirmation, the forthcoming years promise exciting advancements in smartphone design and functionality.

Recommended by the editors:

Thank you for visiting Apple Scoop! As a dedicated independent news organization, we strive to deliver the latest updates and in-depth journalism on everything Apple. Have insights or thoughts to share? Drop a comment below—our team actively engages with and responds to our community. Return to the home page.

Published to Apple Scoop on 27th November, 2024.
Carlos Collins

Carlos Collins

Creative Director / Content Curator

Carlos is Apple Scoop’s Creative Director and Content Curator, specializing in visuals, HD wallpapers, and fun facts about Apple. With 6 years of experience in design and content curation, Carlos ensures every piece of content is visually engaging and aligns with the brand’s aesthetic. He also oversees the creation of trivia and engaging listicles that keep readers coming back for more.

Carlos' journalism More about Foldable iPhone
Stories related to Foldable iPhone

Apple Watch SE 3 Rumors: Release Date, Pricing, Features, and More

58% reliable8 mins

Apple Watch Ultra 3: Rumors, Leaks, Features, Release Date, and More

60% reliable8 mins

Apple's Smart Home 'Command Center' Rumors: Here's What We Know So Far

59% reliable15 mins

iPhone 17, 17 Air, 17 Pro & 17 Pro Max: Rumors, Leaks, and More

65% reliable15 mins

iPhone 17 Air vs. Samsung Galaxy S25 Slim: Rumors, Leaks, and More

61% reliable13 mins

Apple M5 Chip Production Kicks Off for 2025

74% reliable11 mins

iPhone 17 Pro Rumored to Launch With These 9 New Features

64% reliable12 mins

iPhone SE 4: Apple’s First In-House 5G Modem Will Launch in March 2025

66% reliable14 mins

iPhone 17 Slim Rumors: Pricing, Release Date, Display, Camera, and More

62% reliable13 mins

Leaked: iPhone 17 Pro Set to Reintroduce Aluminum

56% reliable9 mins

iPhone 17 Air Could Eliminate SIM Slots Worldwide

77% reliable9 mins

Apple iPhone 17 & iPhone 18 Rumors, Leaks, and More

68% reliable13 mins

iPhone 18 Pro Will Be Your Next Must-Have, Here's Why

58% reliable11 mins

Apple’s Home Hub Smart Display: Rumors, Release Date, Features, Apps, and More

66% reliable13 mins

Samsung Galaxy S25 Rumors: Release Date, Leaks, Pricing, and More

61% reliable16 mins

Apple is Planning to Launch Sleek OLED MacBook Pro Models by 2027

63% reliable10 mins

iOS 19 Rumors: Release Date, Features, Leaks, and More

68% reliable13 mins

Apple’s A19 and A19 Pro Chips: Everything We Know So Far

65% reliable12 mins

iPhone 17 Rumors: A19 Chipset, Camera, Battery Life, and More

62% reliable10 mins

Apple’s Foldable iPhone: Sizing, Rumors, and What We Know So Far

57% reliable11 mins
Apple

Apple

Microsoft

Microsoft

Google

Google

Samsung

Samsung

Meta

Meta

More stories

Apple Watch SE 3 Rumors: Release Date, Pricing, Features, and More

58% reliable8 mins

Apple Watch Ultra 3: Rumors, Leaks, Features, Release Date, and More

60% reliable8 mins

Is Apple Losing Its Edge? iPhone Sales Stall While Android Sales Rise

88% reliable10 mins

Apple's Smart Home 'Command Center' Rumors: Here's What We Know So Far

59% reliable15 mins

100+ Best Free Beach Wallpapers for Apple iPhone, Mac, and iPad

100% reliable110 mins

iPhone 17, 17 Air, 17 Pro & 17 Pro Max: Rumors, Leaks, and More

65% reliable15 mins

iPhone 17 Air vs. Samsung Galaxy S25 Slim: Rumors, Leaks, and More

61% reliable13 mins

100+ Best Luxury Wallpapers for Apple iPhone, Mac, and iPad

100% reliable118 mins

Apple M5 Chip Production Kicks Off for 2025

74% reliable11 mins

iPhone 17 Pro Rumored to Launch With These 9 New Features

64% reliable12 mins

iPhone SE 4: Apple’s First In-House 5G Modem Will Launch in March 2025

66% reliable14 mins

Top 100+ Stunning Free Wallpapers for Apple iPhone SE (All Models)

100% reliable81 mins


More stories
Looking for the perfect wallpaper?
Explore thousands of free, high-quality wallpapers from Apple Scoop, specially crafted for your Apple devices.

Gradient

Apple

4K

HD

Landscape

Beach

Marble

Space

City

Pattern

Sunset

Ocean

Moon

Architecture

Quote




More wallpapers