It seems likely that a foldable iPhone (or foldable iPad) will launch at some point, but when? A new report suggests we’ll have to wait until 2026 for such a device, and that when it does arrive, it’ll be a clamshell foldable in the style of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6.
This comes from sources who speak with The information (through MacRumors), and Apple is now apparently in contact with its supply chain partners to see who can supply the necessary folding screens for an ‘iPhone Flip’.
It’s not entirely clear why Apple would go this route instead of opting for a foldable book model like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, but it’s certainly the cheaper option. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 will cost you $1,899 / £1,799 / AU$2,749, compared to $1,099.99 / £1,049 / AU$1,799 for the Z Flip 6.
The Information notes in its report that Apple’s plans are subject to change, and Apple would have to be happy with the quality of the device before it launches. However, the foldable has now apparently been given a codename within Apple – V68 – which is one of the most important steps in a product’s development.
It took a long time
One of the rumors we’ve heard about the foldable iPhone is that Apple isn’t happy with the crinkling effect in the foldable displays of the devices that rival companies have launched so far. While the technology is improving year after year, you can definitely still see the crinkling in the displays of current foldable handsets.
There’s also talk of Apple working on self-healing folding screen technology, allowing minor dents or scratches to repair themselves. However, these types of displays are likely to be a few years off.
Apple hasn’t yet confirmed that a foldable iPhone is in the pipeline, but that wouldn’t happen until the product is actually revealed. There’s no doubt the company will explore the idea of making such a device — and leaks have suggested that Apple may also be working on foldable laptop displays.
The Information also notes that standard iPhones take 24 months to develop from start to finish, and a foldable version could take longer — so we may have to wait until 2027 or longer before the iPhone gets a new form factor. In the meantime, Android manufacturers continue to launch foldable phones at a steady pace, and you can find out what we think of Samsung’s latest foldable flagship in our in-depth Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 review.