Apple's Foldable iPhone: Rumors, Release Date, Pricing, and More
- Apple’s rumored iPhone Flip could change the foldable game—but don’t hold your breath for a 2024 release.
- With patents filed and prototypes in the works, Apple's first foldable might be closer than we think.
- Rumors hint at a foldable iPad making an appearance before an iPhone—here’s what that could mean for Apple fans.
As speculation swirls around Apple's anticipated entry into the foldable phone market, excitement is building. Apple may be working on a device dubbed the "iPhone Flip"—a foldable iPhone aimed at challenging established competitors like Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold and Google's Pixel Fold. Here’s a deep dive into what we know so far, from release dates to design concepts and potential challenges.
Photo via GSM // A Chinese-made dupe concept of a foldable iPhone.
The Big Question: When Will the iPhone Flip Launch?
The exact release date for the iPhone Flip remains uncertain. Early predictions aimed for a 2024 release, but reports now suggest it may take longer, potentially pushing the debut to 2026 or even 2027. According to TrendForce, a market research firm, we likely won’t see Apple’s first foldable before 2027, giving competitors ample lead time.
Haitong International Securities analyst Jeff Pu adds to the speculation, indicating that Apple’s initial foldable device could be a 20.3-inch hybrid between a tablet and a computer, with a smartphone iteration to follow later. While timelines are foggy, Mark Gurman, a reputable source on Apple’s inner workings, believes Apple is quietly developing prototypes.
"Apple seems to be focused on getting things right rather than rushing into the market," reports Gurman.
Photo via Yanko Design // Another concept rendering of the long rumored Apple iPhone Fold.
Display Details and Size Speculation
Sources indicate that Apple is experimenting with different display sizes for the iPhone Flip. Notably, Ming-Chi Kuo, another respected analyst, claims Apple could go big, with an 8-inch screen rivaling the size of an iPad mini. This would position the device in line with the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and larger than the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold. Apple is reportedly testing a 9-inch foldable display as well.
Apple has also explored color e-ink displays for the exterior screen, which could help reduce battery consumption, a notable consideration for foldable devices.
Design Concepts and Patents
Reports show Apple is experimenting with two major designs for the iPhone Flip:
- Book-style fold: Similar to the Galaxy Z Fold or Google Pixel Fold.
- Clamshell design: More akin to the Galaxy Z Flip or Motorola Razr.
A patent filed by Apple shows a unique design for a foldable device.
Patent filings reveal Apple’s serious consideration of durability features. For instance, one patent suggests a hinge mechanism that could automatically fold shut if dropped, potentially saving the screen from impact. Apple's patents also outline designs for dual displays, flexible hinges, and textured foldable screens.
Jon Prosser from Front Page Tech suggests Apple may settle on the clamshell design, offering a compact and stylish look reminiscent of popular flip phones.
Photo via 9to5Mac // Apple's foldable iPhone is expected in 2026 or 2027.
Apple's Display Research in China
In a move reflecting its commitment to display innovation, Apple recently established display research labs in China. Located in Beijing, Shenzhen, Suzhou, and Shanghai, these labs are part of Apple's effort to diversify its OLED supply chain, which has been heavily reliant on Korean companies like Samsung. Apple has reportedly invested 2 billion yuan (around US $281 million dollars) in the Shenzhen lab alone, with the workforce expected to grow to 1,000.
According to an industry insider, "These research labs are developing and testing panels for iPhones, iPads, Vision Pro, and future foldable iPhones," comparing them directly to Korean displays. Apple’s collaboration with Chinese companies like BOE signals its intent to develop high-quality displays at lower costs, which could significantly impact the market dominance of Korean display manufacturers.
The Price Tag
Pricing remains speculative, but industry trends suggest a premium price point, likely higher than $1,199. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold debuted at $1,980, and Apple could push the iPhone Flip even higher if it opts for a tablet-like, fold-out design. The alternative—a smaller, clamshell-style foldable—might hit closer to the price of high-end models like the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Photo via Android Authority // A concept image of Apple's upcoming foldable iPhone.
Apple's Potential Foldable iPad
Some insiders believe Apple may launch a foldable iPad before venturing into the foldable phone market. This approach could serve as a “testing ground” to gauge consumer interest in foldables. An iPad Flip would carry less risk while still delivering innovation to Apple’s lineup.
A New Direction for Apple
Apple’s pursuit of a foldable iPhone could reshape the smartphone landscape. Historically, Apple has waited until technology matures before entering a market, focusing on quality and longevity rather than rushing to be first. Ben Wood of CCS Insight echoes this sentiment: "At present, there is no commercial imperative for Apple to take the risk of piling into a niche market when the iPhone is so unbelievably successful."
As Apple continues to experiment, the future of foldable technology—and its potential impact on the smartphone market—remains one of the most intriguing stories in tech. Will Apple finally unveil the iPhone Flip? Only time will tell.
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