Apple is said to be in the development phase of two prototypes for foldable iPhones, according to a source with direct insight into the matter. These prototypes resemble flip-style devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and the Oppo Find N Flip, rather than larger foldable phones such as Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and the OnePlus Open.
However, this does not necessarily mean that Apple has definitive plans to release foldable iPhones in the near future. Instead, it seems that the company is exploring the potential of this form factor. These prototypes are not part of Apple’s mass production plans for 2024 or 2025, suggesting that a foldable iPhone may not hit the market until at least 2026, assuming the project progresses successfully. Furthermore, Apple may choose to cancel the project if it fails to meet the company’s rigorous standards.
Reports indicate that Apple initially aimed to develop a foldable iPhone as early as 2018, with a design as slim as the current iPhone models when closed. However, technological limitations related to battery and display technology posed challenges and hindered progress. Apple considered a design where the display would be on the exterior when folded, similar to Huawei’s Mate X, but this approach presented durability challenges and was deemed impractical.
In 2020, Apple temporarily paused foldable iPhone development to focus on a rumored foldable iPad, which is also not expected to launch before 2026. Now, it seems that both projects are being pursued simultaneously. Apple engineers are currently focused on addressing issues such as eliminating the display crease and designing a hinge that allows the screen to lay completely flat. This would ensure compatibility with the Apple Pencil without any hindrances.
While LG and Samsung Display are reportedly involved in the development of the foldable iPad, it remains unclear which companies will supply screens for the foldable iPhone.
