Apple’s foldable iPhone tipped for 2026 launch, may start at Rs 1.73 lakh: Report

Apple's first foldable iPhone, resembling Galaxy Z Fold 6, is rumored to launch in late 2026 with a 12-inch inner screen and dual back cameras. Production is slated to begin in Q3 2024 or early 2026, with an ambitious sales target of 15-20 mn units.

Foldable iPhone coming soon

Image Credit: FoneArena | X

Apple’s big AI delays mean all focus now shifts to the company entering the foldable segment with its first iPhone model expected in late 2026. A 12-inch inner screen and two back cameras are reportedly features of Apple's first foldable, which is reportedly a book-style folding gadget akin to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6.

It is far thinner than the Galaxy Z Fold 6 or even the Fold 5 in terms of size, measuring 9.2 mm when folded and 4.6 mm when unfurled. Apple, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, has a detailed roadmap for its foldable tablet that outlines its manufacturing and shelf availability strategies.

Apple foldable iPhone: What do we know?

According to the expert, Apple would rely on Samsung Display to provide the iPhones' foldable screens. The gadget will be manufactured by Foxconn, and the business plans to begin development of the product in Q3 2024 or early 2026, with mass production to follow later in the year.

This implies that Apple may be planning to release the iPhone foldable with the iPhone 18 series in the upcoming year. An ambitious goal for a costly product, the business hopes to export between 15 and 20 million units.

According to rumours, Samsung is the only company working on the screen for Apple's first foldable smartphone that uses UTG Lens technology. It's probably a variation of the ultra-thin glass (UTG) used in Samsung's flexible products.

Apple's foldable smartphone is said to have a dual back camera configuration that includes an ultra-wide angle sensor and a primary camera, as well as an aluminium alloy middle frame. It is anticipated to include a 5,000 mAh battery, which should allow for extended use.

As it works to address the problems with its AI ecosystem, the firm has not yet discussed its foldable intentions. According to a recent source, Apple will have Siri AI ready with the iOS 26.4 update, which is anticipated to be released in March or April of next year. Siri AI has been postponed until 2026.

Apple foldable iPhone: Expected price

As of now, Apple has yet to release specific details about the foldable iPhone. However, speculation suggests that it could be priced between $2,000 (about Rs 1.73 lakh) and $2,500 (around Rs 2.16 lakh). According to leaks, the company may have placed orders for the production of approximately 15 to 20 million units.