Apple has maintained a consistent four-model iPhone lineup for years, but that could soon change. Rumors suggest that in 2025, Apple will introduce a new model — the iPhone 17 Air — replacing the current Plus variant. As the company looks ahead, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that Apple is also preparing to launch its first foldable iPhone in 2026, which will feature a book-style folding design rather than the clamshell style seen in some competitors.
Foldable iPhone to Inherit Design Cues from iPhone 17 Air
Gurman notes that the upcoming foldable iPhone will follow a book-style format, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. It’s expected to incorporate several of the cutting-edge technologies found in the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, which is predicted to be Apple’s slimmest iPhone yet at just 5.5 mm thick. While this sleek design might bring compromises in speaker and camera performance, it promises to maintain the signature iPhone experience with better battery life than the iPhone 16e.
What We Know About the Foldable iPhone So Far
According to leaks and insider reports, the foldable iPhone may feature a 7.8-inch internal display when unfolded and a 5.5-inch external screen. Analysts Ming-Chi Kuo and Jeff Pu, along with tipster Digital Chat Station, confirm Apple’s decision to go with a book-style design.
To boost durability, Apple is reportedly using liquid metal for the hinge mechanism — a material known for its strength and flexibility, previously used in smaller iPhone components like SIM ejector tools. This choice could help reduce screen creasing and enhance the phone’s lifespan, addressing one of the main pain points in foldable phones.
The device is expected to be exceptionally slim, measuring around 4.5 mm when open and between 9 mm and 9.5 mm when folded — potentially making it one of the thinnest foldables on the market. To save space, Apple may swap out Face ID for Touch ID integrated into the power button.
Battery life is also said to be a key focus, with Apple likely opting for a high-density battery, though specific details have yet to surface.
Pricing and Availability
While Apple hasn’t confirmed pricing, Gurman estimates the foldable iPhone could be priced around $2,000 (approximately ₹1,71,885). Due to the complex production process, early availability may be limited. If development stays on track, Apple might launch the foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 lineup in 2026.
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