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While Samsung, Google, and OnePlus are already in the foldable smartphone race, Apple is still in the planning phase for its first-ever foldable iPhone. According to a new leak by renowned tipster Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is expected to launch its first foldable iPhone by late 2026 or early 2027.

Expected Shipments: 3-5 million units in 2026

However, what’s grabbing attention is the price—the foldable iPhone is expected to cost between $2,000 and $2,500, making it more expensive than the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Google Pixel 9 Fold, and OnePlus Open.

What to Expect from Apple’s First Foldable iPhone?

Design & Display

Book-style foldable (similar to Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, OnePlus Open, Pixel 9 Fold)
Inner Display: 7.8-inch crease-free screen
Outer Display: 5.5-inch cover screen
Thickness: 9-9.5mm when folded, 4.5-4.8mm when unfolded

No Face ID?

Surprisingly, Apple may remove Face ID from the foldable iPhone. Instead, it is rumored to have a side-mounted fingerprint sensor due to space constraints caused by the device’s foldable design.

Build & Durability

Hinge Material: Stainless Steel + Titanium Alloy
Premium & durable design

Camera Setup (Rumored)

Dual-camera setup at the back
Selfie camera on both the cover display and main display

Production Timeline & Launch Expectations

Q2 2025: Final specifications to be locked
Q3 2025: Official project kickoff
Q4 2026: Mass production begins

With the timeline stretching to 2026 or even 2027, Apple is clearly taking its time to perfect its first foldable device. However, the high price tag and rumored removal of Face ID could spark mixed reactions among Apple fans.