Apple’s first foldable iPhone will launch in 2026, borrowing ultra-thin tech from iPhone 17 Air

After years of speculation, Apple is set to enter the foldable phone market in 2026. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company is working on a device that will feature a book-style fold, much like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold. Unlike the clamshell-style foldable, Apple’s model will open to reveal a larger display—essentially merging an iPhone and an iPad mini into one ultra-premium gadget.

The foldable iPhone will integrate cutting-edge technology from the upcoming iPhone 17 Air, which is expected to be the thinnest iPhone ever, measuring just 5.5mm thick. Apple’s goal is to perfect ultra-thin design elements before applying them to a folding device, ensuring durability while maintaining the sleek aesthetic Apple is known for.

Thinner, Lighter, and… Compromised?

The iPhone 17 Air is expected to make some trade-offs, particularly with speaker and camera quality, in order to achieve its ultra-thin form. However, it will still deliver the core iPhone experience, including solid battery life. Apple is using this model as a stepping stone toward perfecting its future foldable design, experimenting with compact components and lightweight materials.

According to Gurman, Apple’s foldable iPhone will likely be part of the iPhone 18 lineup. Reports from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggest that the device will feature a 5.5-inch outer display and a 7.8-inch inner display when unfolded—comparable to an iPad mini. This aligns with Apple’s ongoing efforts to blur the lines between phones and tablets.

A Luxury Price Tag & Limited Availability

Apple’s first foldable won’t come cheap. Gurman estimates a starting price of around $2,000, positioning it firmly in the luxury smartphone category. Production is expected to be slow at first, meaning availability could be scarce in the early months of release.

While foldable phones have gained traction in the Android market, Apple’s entry into the space could redefine expectations. If executed well, this device might challenge both traditional iPhones and smaller iPads, creating an entirely new product category.

As 2026 approaches, all eyes will be on Apple to see if it can deliver a foldable experience that outshines its competitors. With the iPhone 17 Air laying the groundwork, the company appears to be betting big on the future of flexible displays.