Apple is reportedly making significant strides toward launching its first foldable smartphone, with a potential release in the second half of 2026. This development follows Apple’s successful efforts in eliminating the prominent screen crease, a common issue in existing foldable devices.
Addressing the Screen Crease Issue
One of the major drawbacks of current foldable smartphones is the visible crease along the fold line when the device is open. This aesthetic flaw has been a concern for both manufacturers and consumers, impacting the overall user experience.
Apple, known for its design precision, was reportedly dissatisfied with early foldable display samples due to this issue. Recent reports indicate that Apple has collaborated closely with suppliers to develop a solution that effectively removes the screen crease. An industry insider noted, “Apple has decided to eliminate the crease at all costs, regardless of price, to differentiate its foldable phone from existing models.”
This breakthrough suggests that Apple has introduced new materials or technological advancements to address the problem, setting its foldable iPhone apart from competitors.
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Collaborations and Technological Advancements
Apple is reportedly working with several industry-leading suppliers to bring its foldable iPhone to life:
- Samsung Display: Expected to be the exclusive supplier of OLED panels for the foldable device, leveraging its experience in mass-producing foldable OLED screens.
- Corning: Likely to provide the ultra-thin glass covering the display.
- Amphenol: The frontrunner to supply the hinge mechanism, building on its experience with MacBook Pro hinges.
These collaborations highlight Apple’s focus on ensuring top-tier durability and performance for its foldable smartphone.
Anticipated Features and Design
Although Apple has kept specific design details under wraps, recent rumors suggest the foldable iPhone may feature:
- 5.49-inch outer display and a 7.74-inch inner screen when unfolded.
- “Unprecedented aspect ratios”, with the outer display reportedly shorter and wider than Oppo’s new Find N5.
- A compact and user-friendly design, in line with Apple’s emphasis on ergonomics and usability.
These dimensions suggest a balance between portability and an immersive display experience.
Market Implications and Competition
The foldable smartphone market has seen increased competition, with brands like Huawei introducing the Mate XT, the industry’s first tri-foldable phone, and Oppo refining its design with minimal crease visibility.
Despite these advancements, challenges like high pricing and app optimization issues have slowed widespread adoption. However, analysts believe Apple’s entry into the foldable segment could redefine market standards and drive mainstream adoption.
Projected Timeline
According to Apple’s typical product development cycle, the foldable iPhone is expected to launch in the second half of 2026, with large-scale component manufacturing likely beginning in the latter half of 2025. Some reports suggest a possible early 2027 release, depending on final production adjustments.
As Apple moves closer to unveiling its first foldable smartphone, the industry eagerly anticipates how this device could revolutionize foldable technology and reshape the future of mobile devices.
