Apple is currently working to solve technical issues related to the screen of its first foldable smartphone. A major goal for the company’s engineers is to create a display that shows no visible crease when it is fully opened. Most folding phones currently on the market have a slight indentation or line where the hinge is located. While users often get used to this, Apple is known for prioritizing a seamless aesthetic and is reportedly unwilling to release a product that does not meet its internal standards for a flat surface.
To achieve this crease-free look, Apple is experimenting with various types of ultra-thin flexible glass. This material must be durable enough to withstand thousands of folds while remaining clear and responsive to touch. The company is also looking into advanced hinge designs that could help pull the screen tight when the device is open. Because this technology is difficult to manufacture at a large scale, these engineering hurdles are likely the reason why Apple has not yet joined the foldable market alongside its competitors.
Apple is exploring new design features with this concept
Rumors regarding the foldable iPhone suggest it could include other high-end features beyond the folding screen. One possibility is the inclusion of an under-display camera, which would eliminate the need for a notch or a hole-punch cutout on the main screen. This would provide a completely uninterrupted viewing experience for watching videos or playing games. Apple is also reportedly testing different form factors, though it remains unclear if the first model will be a large tablet-style device or a more compact flip phone.
The development of this device is happening alongside a broader shift in Apple’s smartphone lineup. As the company prepares for its 2026 and 2027 releases, the foldable model is expected to be a premium addition rather than a replacement for existing iPhones. This strategy allows Apple to test new technologies with a smaller group of enthusiast users before eventually bringing those features to more affordable models. By taking extra time to address the crease issue, Apple hopes to offer a more polished experience than the early versions of rival folding devices.
When will we see the Apple Foldable phone?
Industry analysts currently predict that the foldable iPhone will make its debut in September 2026. This launch would likely coincide with the announcement of the iPhone 18 series, though it may be positioned as a separate, high-end category. There is also a possibility that the release could be pushed to 2027 if the technical challenges regarding the display are not resolved to Apple’s satisfaction. Currently, there is no official name for the device, though “iPhone Fold” is a common placeholder used by observers.
Pricing for the foldable iPhone is expected to be higher than any current non-folding model. Estimates suggest the device could start between $1,500 and $2,000, reflecting the high cost of the specialized components and the extensive research and development involved. This would place it in direct competition with premium folding devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Google Pixel Fold. Official confirmation of these details will likely not arrive until closer to the actual launch event as Apple continues to refine its hardware.
