When is the foldable iPhone coming out? 2026 launch window and possible delays explained

Because even though Apple’s first foldable has been discussed endlessly, it’s still hard to pinpoint an exact date without seeing official designs or more concrete leaks. Plus, some recent reports hint at possible production delays, which could push the release into 2027. If that happens, another year of waiting could test even the most patient Apple fans.

Regardless of timing, one thing seems certain: Apple is committed to launching its first foldable, and for now, next year looks like the moment it finally happens.

What to expect from the foldable iPhone?

Apple’s foldable debut appears to be following the book-style design, rather than the clamshell format seen on devices like the Galaxy Z Flip. Think more along the lines of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 or Pixel 10 Pro Fold – a phone that opens up into a small tablet-like screen.

Early rumors suggest it will measure around 9 – 9.5mm thick when folded, slimming to 4.5 – 4.8mm when opened. That puts it in line with other modern foldables, where thinner designs are a big selling point.

Inside, the foldable iPhone is expected to feature a 7.8-inch foldable display, with a 5.5-inch cover screen on the outside. The foldable should include a dual-lens 48 MP rear setup, mirroring the base iPhone 17, along with two front-facing cameras: one for the closed display and one under the main foldable screen.

Connectivity is rumored to come from Apple’s in-house C2 modem, the second-generation chip designed to replace Qualcomm hardware. The C1 modem first appeared in the iPhone 16e, followed by the C1X in the iPhone Air.

If it launches alongside the iPhone 18 series, the foldable iPhone should run on the next-generation A20 chip. Whether it will use the standard or Pro version isn’t clear yet, but either option promises a substantial performance boost.

Apple seems ready to equip its foldable with premium specs. Reports suggest 12 GB of RAM, with storage options of 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB – in line with what you’d expect from a top-tier foldable. Price-wise, it’s rumored to cost around $2,000, putting it in the same league as Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Battery capacity could be another standout feature, with leaks pointing to a 5,000 – 5,500mAh cell – the largest ever in an iPhone.

All in all, Apple appears closer than ever to revealing its first foldable iPhone. As 2026 approaches, we should start seeing more leaks and details about its design, giving us a clearer picture of how Apple plans to tackle the foldable market.