Apple’s entrance into the foldable smartphone market has been one of the most anticipated tech developments in recent years. Rumors, insider tips, and supply-chain leaks have been swirling for months and while nothing is official yet, there’s now enough credible information to paint a pretty detailed picture of what Apple’s first foldable device, often dubbed the “iPhone Fold,” might look like when it finally arrives.

Here’s every major leak and rumor you need to know before the possible launch in late 2026 or early 2027.

Expected Launch Timeline

According to multiple analyst reports, Apple could launch the iPhone Fold in late 2026, possibly around the same event as the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and Air models — typically held in September. Some sources, however, suggest a potential delay into early 2027, if production or design challenges push timelines back.

The device’s manufacturing is complex, and Apple traditionally wants perfection before a new product category debut, so limited initial availability is also expected.

Book-Style Foldable Design

Most reputable leaks point to a book-style folding mechanism — where the device opens like a mini tablet — similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. This gives users both an external screen when folded and a large internal screen when opened.

Displays

• Outer (cover) screen: Around 5.5 inches — enough for quick tasks without unfolding.
• Inner (folded-open) screen: Approximately 7.8 inches — almost iPad-mini sized.
• Many leaks specify that Apple is striving for a “crease-free” inner display using advanced hinge and stress management technology.

Build & Materials

Leaks hint that Apple will use premium materials like titanium alloy for the hinge and chassis, improving durability — a key point for foldable devices historically prone to creasing and wear.

Security: Touch ID Instead of Face ID?

One standout rumor suggests Apple might drop Face ID entirely for the iPhone Fold due to space constraints inside the hinge and foldable design. Instead, the company is reportedly expected to bring back Touch ID, integrated into the power button — similar to some iPads — offering a thinner device and a cleaner screen.

This could be a major shift for iPhone security, prioritizing a compact foldable design over full Face ID hardware.

Camera Setup

Details on the camera system remain partly speculative, but several leaks point toward:

• Dual rear cameras (matching Apple’s recent Pro models in capability).
• Front cameras for both the outer and inner screens — likely using hole-punch or under-screen solutions.
• Some rumors suggest Apple may opt out of embedding Face ID TrueDepth sensors under the screen, instead relying on Touch ID.

Battery & Performance

Foldables typically require more power due to larger screens. Rumors suggest Apple could include a battery capacity above 5,500 mAh, making it one of the largest used in any iPhone to date. This would help offset the power demands of the foldable display technology.

Performance is expected to be flagship-grade, likely packing the next generation Apple silicon (A20 or A20 Pro) — similar to the chip rumored for the iPhone 18 lineup.

Price Expectations

Because of its advanced design and production costs, many analysts believe the iPhone Fold will sit at the premium end of the market, with a potential price tag breaking past $2,000 in the U.S., making it possibly the most expensive iPhone ever at launch.

What This Means for Apple & the Market

This rumored iPhone Fold represents Apple’s biggest hardware pivot in years — bringing the company into a segment long dominated by Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series and other Android OEMs. If these leaks prove accurate, Apple’s foldable entry could redefine how users interact with iOS, multitask, and use mobile productivity tools.

That said, Apple is likely to take its time, ensuring a refined user experience, long battery life, and a durable hinge — all areas where foldables have historically struggled.

Final Thoughts

The iPhone Fold is shaping up to be a bold and premium experiment for Apple — a device that may finally bring foldable phones to the mainstream iPhone audience. With a possible release in late 2026, a book-style design, high-end hardware, advanced security shifts, and a hefty price tag, Apple’s first foldable could become one of the most talked-about phones of the year.

Stick around — as we’ll update this space with fresh leaks, official confirmations, and hands-on photos as soon as they surface.