Apple’s long-rumoured first foldable iPhone is finally taking shape, and recent glimpses at CES 2026 have given tech fans fresh reasons to believe it could launch later this year with cutting-edge display technology. Industry insiders say the device will mark Apple’s biggest smartphone design shift in years, entering the premium foldable market dominated by Samsung and Google.
iPhone Fold Launch Date: When Will it Arrive?
Reports from multiple analysts and supply chain sources suggest that Apple’s first foldable iPhone is targeting a late 2026 launch, likely in September during the company’s usual fall event window. Production is expected to begin in the second half of 2026, though some industry notes warn of potential limited supply or delays into 2027 due to manufacturing challenges.Â
If all goes to plan, pre-orders could start soon after the announcement, with general availability following weeks later. Countries expected to see initial sales include the US, UK, Europe, Japan and Australia.Â
iPhone Fold Specifications: What the iPhone Fold Might Feature
The iPhone Fold, Apple’s first book-style folding smartphone, is shaping up to blend smartphone and tablet-like functionality in a premium package. Rumoured specifications include:Â
Display:
• 5.5-inch outer OLED when folded
• 7.8-inch crease-free inner OLED when unfolded
Design: Book-style fold, similar to Galaxy Z Fold
Build: Titanium/alloy chassis, ultra-thin profile (~9-9.5 mm folded, ~4.5 4.8 mm open)
Camera: Dual rear cameras, front cameras on both displays
Biometrics: Side-mounted Touch ID
Durability: Laser-drilled metal structure to minimize display crease
Software: iOS 27 optimised for foldable multitasking
The emphasis on a crease-free panel was highlighted at CES 2026, where Samsung Display briefly showed a new foldable screen with no visible crease — a possible hint at the technology Apple may adopt for its iPhone Fold.Â
iPhone Fold Price: How Much Will the iPhone Fold Cost?
Analysts agree that Apple’s first foldable iPhone will command a premium price, likely making it one of the most expensive iPhones ever:Â
Expected Range: $2,000 – $2,500 (₹1.7 – ₹2.16 lakh approx.)
Some reports suggest the top-end model could even retail closer to $2,399, depending on configurations and regional pricing.Â
At these prices, the iPhone Fold may sit well above competing foldables like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, reinforcing Apple’s premium positioning.
iPhone Fold Display Technology: Crease-Free Innovation at CES 2026
One of the most talked-about developments from CES 2026 was the unveiling of a next-generation crease-free OLED panel. Though briefly shown, the panel demonstrated seamless visuals across the fold — a major leap from current foldables that show noticeable creases.Â
Industry analysts believe Apple will use a version of this display with its own lamination and stress-dispersion design, combining Samsung’s OLED prowess with Apple’s unique engineering to deliver a smooth foldable screen.Â
Why This Foldable iPhone Matters?
Apple’s entering the foldable market could redefine the smartphone landscape. With its first foldable, the company is expected to:
- Expand iPhone lineup into new form factors
- Challenge foldable leaders like Samsung and Google
- Drive innovations in display, hinge, and multitasking software
For Apple fans, this move signals a rare major leap in design since the original iPhone’s debut. The iPhone Fold is set to blend flagship performance with a fresh user experience, potentially pushing foldable devices into the mainstream.Â