Rumors indicate foldable iPhone with flip format

A Apple may enter the foldable smartphone segment sooner than expected, according to a survey conducted by the website The Information. The company has reportedly already completed the design phase of the foldable iPhone and is in negotiations with suppliers in Asia.

The model would be of the clamshell type, similar to Galaxy Z Flip and Samsung and to Razr 50 Ultra and Motorolaand would be the size of a conventional smartphone when opened.

Foldable iPhone is already in the research and development phase

Sources say Apple’s foldable device, internally called the V68, is being developed with two main goals in mind: eliminating the crease visible when folding phones are unfolded and making the device thinner. Apple wants to avoid making it as thin as two smartphones stacked together, as is common with current models from competitors.

Korean media also reports that Apple is in the research and development phase for the foldable. According to local reports, Apple has even signed a display supply deal with Samsung Display. The 2026 launch forecast is based on the company’s typical product development cycle, which usually lasts two years.

According to the Korean press, the reason Apple is rushing to launch a foldable iPhone is the huge success this type of device has had in China, one of the largest markets in the world:

“IInitially, it was speculated that Apple would first launch a foldable iPad to gauge market reaction and accumulate sales experience before introducing the technology into its flagship product, the iPhone. However, due to challenges encountered in the Chinese smartphone market, Apple has adjusted its plans and may introduce the iPhone as its first foldable product.”

Foldable MacBooks are also on Apple’s roadmap

In February, the same The Information reported that Apple was working on prototypes in two different sizes. In May, market analyst Ming-Chi Kuo indicated that the company is preparing Foldable MacBooks with 18.8-inch and 20-inch screens, close to the sizes of current models. Kuo also predicts they will hit the market in 2026, earlier than the previous forecast of 2027.

Apple is also said to be developing a new camera mechanism for its smartphones, capable of controlling the aperture and creating a portrait effect.

Sources: Reuters, The Verge, 9to5Mac