According to a report by Taiwanese firm TrendForce, the upcoming “iPhone Fold” will open to unveil a 7.8‑inch internal OLED display, while sporting a more compact 5.5‑inch exterior screen for quick access (via MacRumors).
These sizes put Apple slightly behind Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, which offers an 8‑inch inner panel and a 6.5‑inch outer display. Yet several experts suggest Apple is playing it safe, trading maximum screen area for improved portability and premium design.
One of the most persistent issues plaguing foldable phones is the visible crease along the hinge. Kuo and TrendForce now indicate that Apple will deploy a laser‑drilled metal plate beneath the display to diffuse stress and deliver a nearly crease‑free experience. Samsung is also expected to include similar tech in its Galaxy Z Fold 8.
Industry reports also hint at a design overhaul inside the hinge mechanism, incorporating titanium and stainless steel elements to boost durability. The exterior chassis will likely feature two rear cameras and a front-facing camera that works whether the device is folded or not.
In terms of biometric security, Apple appears poised to skip Face ID on the Fold, favoring a side-mounted Touch ID for authentication, a simpler solution better suited to the new form factor. Launch expectations are centering around the latter half of 2026, most likely during September alongside the iPhone 18 series.
Analysts project that Apple’s foldable will hit a high price tier, estimated to start between $1,800 and $2,500, a level consistent with its position as a luxury offering. Bloomberg notes the steep cost could help revitalize iPhone sales and reinforce Apple’s image as an innovation leader