iPhone Fold details leaked ahead of its launch: Key specs and features

India Today

20-05-2025

We have been hearing whispers about Apple's first foldable device for a while. Leaks and renders have spread across the internet, claiming what could possibly be seen in a foldable iPhone. In fact, Apple has been securing a number of patents related to foldable device technology, proving that the idea is indeed being explored at the Cupertino headquarters. As for when Apple will actually launch its first foldable — given Apple's history of remaining tight-lipped before launch — official announcements are unlikely until the imminent release.advertisementBut we can speculate, and in fact, there are multiple reports suggesting that the launch of the foldable iPhone may not be far off. According to a recent report by The Information, the foldable iPhone could arrive in 2026 with the iPhone 18 lineup. The report suggests that Apple will launch its iPhone 18 series in phases, with the iPhone 18 Air, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone 18 Fold arriving in September, and the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e launching in early 2027.Meanwhile, another report by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that Apple's foldable device will enter mass production in Q4 2026, with a release either in late 2026 or early 2027. Kuo projects initial shipments between 3 to 5 million units, potentially scaling up to 20 million with a second-generation model expected the following year.As for the delay, Apple is said to be sticking to its idea of perfection and doesn't want to release its foldable device until it meets the company's high standards.advertisement
Now, coming to the internals — again, nothing is confirmed or leaked by Apple, and we can only speculate based on multiple patents and rumours.Foldable display by SamsungRumour has it that Apple is relying on Samsung for its foldable display. While earlier rumours hinted at LG Display being involved, more recent leaks claim that Apple has signed an exclusive deal with Samsung to supply the foldable panels. Foldable iPhone screen dimensions Leaks suggest that the first iPhone Fold will reportedly feature a 5.49-inch outer screen for standard smartphone use, and a larger 7.74 to 7.8-inch internal screen when unfolded — similar in size to the iPad mini. The inner display is expected to have a 2,713 x 1,920 resolution at 428ppi, while the outer screen will offer a 2,088 x 1,422 resolution at 460ppi.According to reports by Ming-Chi Kuo and other industry insiders, the foldable iPhone display will follow a 4:3 aspect ratio, which will allow the device to offer a tablet-like experience when opened.There are also rumours about a hidden under-display camera for the larger screen, while the cover display may feature a standard punch-hole front camera.Creaseless foldable displayOne of the challenges reportedly delaying Apple's first foldable is the display crease. The company is said to be investing heavily to deal with the issue. According to the company's patent filings, it has explored various design ideas for a creaseless display including self-healing display layers and outer-folding concepts and even stretchable screens.advertisementEarlier this year, there were also reports claiming that Apple would use a liquid metal hinge, a material said to be twice as strong as titanium, for improved durability and folding mechanisms.Additionally, Apple is also rumoured to be upgrading its display driver ICs from a 28nm to a more efficient 16nm process to offer better battery life.iPhone Fold design, battery, and camerasAs for other specifications, leaked details suggest that the iPhone Fold will have a 9 to 9.5mm thickness when closed and 4.5 to 4.8mm when opened — making it one of the slimmest foldables yet. For the slimness, Apple is said to follow the design blueprint from the rumored iPhone 17 Air which is likely to arrive this year as the slimmest iPhone till date. There are also reports that Apple could use a 5,000mAh 3D stacked battery, based on Apple's 2020 battery patents.On the photography front, the foldable iPhone may house two rear sensors similar to the standar iPhone 16 design — likely a Main and an Ultra-Wide — and a front-facing camera when unfolded. There is also speculation about the use of an ultra-thin Meta Lens, though this remains unconfirmed.iPhone Fold priceApple has never shied away from putting an exorbitant price tag on its latest innovations, so we expect the first foldable iPhone to be heavy on the pockets. According to rumoured price estimates from various analysts, including Kuo, Apple could price the foldable iPhone between $2,000 and $2,500. One report from March 2025 pegged the cost at around $2,300 — placing it above the Mac Studio and in line with high-end foldables like Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series.