Apple is noticeably absent from the foldable phone market, despite competitors like Samsung, Motorola, and Google releasing several devices in the niche. The latest foldable phones from these companies exhibit mature designs and robust flexible displays, leaving Android devices dominating the foldables market. However, Apple seems to be working on its own foldable phone, referred to as the iPhone Flip. Rumors suggest that Apple may also be exploring foldable displays for other devices like the iPad and MacBook, with potential release dates ranging from 2026 to 2028.
At the WWDC event in June, Apple introduced Apple Intelligence, a suite of generative AI tools coming to iOS 18 for the iPhone 15 and upcoming iPhone 16. There have been reports suggesting that Apple is working on a clamshell-style foldable iPhone internally referred to as “the V68,” with a potential release date in 2026. A patent granted to Apple in July reveals the company’s work on a folding iPhone, but it does not provide much detail on the design. Speculation suggests that Apple is working on two sizes of folding iPhones, with challenges in meeting the company’s high standards.
In terms of design, Apple’s foldable iPhone may feature a traditional fold-out design with a hidden hinge mechanism. Apple seems to be learning from the pain points of other companies’ foldable devices, particularly in addressing the issue of visible creases when the display is folded out to full screen. Cost is also a significant consideration, as foldable phones tend to be more expensive than traditional smartphones. Apple’s foldable device would need to compete in terms of pricing with other brands to attract potential customers, with reports suggesting a potential release date between 2025 and 2027.
Despite Apple’s delay in entering the foldable phone market, there is significant interest among consumers in these devices. Half of American consumers have shown interest in buying a foldable phone, with Apple customers also expressing interest. As Apple continues to work on its foldable iPhone, the company will need to address challenges related to design, cost, and display quality to compete effectively in the foldables market. With rumors and patents indicating ongoing development, it remains to be seen when Apple will release its own foldable device, potentially changing the landscape of the smartphone industry.
