The path towards a foldable iPhone launch is taking a solid form because Apple was previously reported to be shortlisting suppliers that would provide it with the components necessary to pursue the device’s mass production. We have mentioned that the handset would sport a ‘book-style’ form factor similar to the Galaxy Z Fold 6, with an analyst chipping in with additional valuable information.
Unfortunately, based on the new updates, it appears that potential buyers will not just have to bear the undertaking of parting ways with a huge sum of money when purchasing the foldable iPhone, but they will have to get used to Touch ID returning, as design complications will prevent the adoption of Face ID.
Mass production scheduled to start a little late for the first foldable iPhone, but Apple is planning a second iteration in the second half of 2027
TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes that the foldable iPhone will offer a ‘true’ AI experience thanks to better cross-app integration and Multimodal functionality. By the time the device is slated for an official announcement, there should be a bevy of Apple Intelligence features rolled out for a multitude of compatible products. Unfortunately, due to the design and internal space constraints, Kuo states that the book-style foldable iPhone will lack Face ID and will rely on Touch ID incorporated in the side button.
As for the specifications, Kuo notes that the inner display will be crease-free and sport a size of 7.8 inches, while the outer panel will measure 5.5 inches. Analyst Ross Young previously commented that for Apple to eliminate the crease, it will have to resort to a thicker front glass, which will also need to be chemically treated. This process will likely be costly, but it is the trade-off the company has to make to differentiate its foldable iPhone from the competition. Other details include a thickness of 9-9.5mm when folded and 4.5-4.8mm when completely unfolded.
As for the materials, Kuo states that Apple will employ a combination of stainless steel and titanium alloy for the hinge, with the chassis sporting a titanium alloy build. Interestingly, the analyst states that the foldable iPhone will feature a high-density battery like the iPhone 17 but does not confirm if Apple will add silicon-carbon cells or higher-capacity lithium-polymer batteries. The Cupertino giant has been reported to bring this technology to future products, but an exact launch timeline has not been provided.
Speaking of the launch timeline, Apple will reportedly finalize the foldable iPhone’s specifications in the second quarter of 2025, with mass production slated for Q4 2026. Due to the complications involved and the fact that the company is estimated to churn out up to just five million units, customers could pay between $2,000 and $2,500 per unit. It is not a pretty picture compared to what Apple typically sells in a calendar year, but the company could increase volume as soon as shipments start picking up the pace. It is important to note that these details could change in the blink of an eye, so readers should treat Kuo’s predictions with a pinch of salt.
News Source: Ming-Chi Kuo
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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