Apple’s First Foldable iPhone

 

After years of speculation and more than 15 years of research and development (with the first patents dating back to 2011), Apple is finally preparing to launch its first foldable smartphone. Here are the most compelling details about the future “iPhone Fold” (or Flex).

 

1. Release Date: The Countdown Begins

According to the most reliable sources, two potential launch windows are emerging:

·        September 2026: The most likely scenario, alongside the release of the iPhone 18 lineup.

·        January 2027: During a special Apple event to kick off the year.

 

2. Design and Display: The End of the Crease?

True to its strategy of not being first but being the best, Apple has taken its time to refine the technology.

·        Goodbye to the crease: Apple is reportedly using a “liquid metal” hinge (a metal–glass alloy), said to be 2.5 times stronger than titanium, potentially enabling the world’s first foldable display with no visible crease.

·        “iPad Mini” format: Unlike Samsung’s nearly square displays, Apple is expected to adopt a 4:3 aspect ratio, ideal for video consumption and gaming.

·        Dimensions: The outer display would measure 5.5 inches (wider than the competition), while the inner display would reach 7.8 inches. Thickness is estimated at around 4.8 mm when unfolded.

 

3. Technical Specifications

·        Performance: Powered by the A20 or A21 Pro chip with 12 GB of RAM.

·        Battery life: A 5,000 mAh battery is expected, though heat management remains a challenge for such a thin device.

·        Cameras: To maintain slimness, Apple may opt for a dual 48 MP rear camera setup (main + ultra-wide), complemented by cameras on both the external and internal displays.

·        Security: No under-display Face ID for now; Apple could integrate Touch ID into the power button.

 

4. Software and User Experience

This is where Apple aims to truly stand out. The operating system would be a hybrid between iOS and iPadOS, with a dynamically adapting interface designed to deliver an experience close to a pocket-sized iPad. An optimized menu bar and even Apple Pencil compatibility are rumored.

 

5. The Price of Innovation

Luxury and cutting-edge technology come at a cost. Early estimates place this foldable iPhone at around $2,500 (over €2,300), making it the most expensive smartphone in Apple’s history, approaching the price range of the Apple Vision Pro.

 

Detailed Comparison: iPhone “Fold/Flex” vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Feature	Apple iPhone Fold (Expected 2026/27)	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Inner Display	7.8 inches (4:3 ratio) – iPad Mini–like format	7.6 inches (almost square) – very compact
Outer Display	5.5 inches – shorter but wider (comfortable typing)	6.3 inches – very narrow and tall
Crease Visibility	Nearly invisible thanks to the “liquid metal” hinge	Still visible despite improvements
Hinge	Ultra-durable composite materials (metal/glass)	Dual-rail hinge in reinforced aluminum
Weight	Approx. 240–250 g (fairly heavy)	239 g (very light for a foldable)
Processor	A20 / A21 Pro (likely 2 nm process)	Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (or Gen 4, depending on version)
Camera / Video	Dual camera (48 MP), strong software focus	Triple camera (50 MP + 12 MP + 10 MP)
Authentication	Likely Touch ID (side button)	Touch ID (side button)
Estimated Price	Around $2,500 / €2,400	Around $1,900 / €1,899

Why Apple Could Win the Battle

1.     The 4:3 screen ratio: Samsung’s biggest weakness. On square displays, YouTube or Netflix videos show large black bars. Apple’s 4:3 ratio should provide far better immersion, similar to an iPad.

2.     The software ecosystem: Apple won’t just scale up iOS. The interface will be a seamless fusion with iPadOS, enabling much more intuitive multitasking than the competition.

3.     Durability: Entering the market seven years after Samsung, Apple wants to avoid early foldable pitfalls. The use of “liquid metal” and foldable Ceramic Shield could make the display far more resistant to scratches.

 

Why Samsung Still Has the Edge

1.     Price: With a difference of nearly €600, Samsung remains more accessible.

2.     Experience: Samsung is already on its 6th (soon 7th) generation. Many early issues—heat management, battery durability—have already been addressed, challenges Apple may still face challenges.

3.     Weight: Samsung has managed to make its Fold as light as an iPhone 14 Pro Max, while Apple appears to be going for a more substantial device.

 In short, Apple’s foldable iPhone could redefine the segment through design, software, and durability—while Samsung continues to dominate through experience, pricing, and refinement.