First foldable iPhone to be flip-style, landing in 2026

Apple's first foldable iPhone has been in the news for years, and it's still not materialized. That, however, might change in 2026, according to a new report from Asia today.

It will be a flip-style foldable reminiscent of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6, and not the Fold6, the report goes on to claim. Apple has allegedly started the research and development phase for the device this year, which means a release in 2026 is most likely based on its typical two-year development cycle for smartphones.

The folding screen will be supplied by Samsung Display, and a contract with Apple has already been signed for it, apparently. When unfolded, the first foldable iPhone will have dimensions "similar to existing iPhones", as per the report. We assume this means length and width, and not thickness.

Some previous rumors claimed Apple's first foldable device would be an iPad, but the company has allegedly changed its strategy "due to challenges encountered in the Chinese smartphone market", and thus the foldable iPhone is now set to be its first folding product.

As always, do take all of this with a grain of salt, as reports about foldable iPhones have been doing the rounds for years without any actual products launching. The wait continues.

Source