When Will Apple Release a Foldable iPhone? Expected Release Date, Price, and Upgrades

Apple's WWDC 2026 focused on software updates, AI improvements, and a more unified user experience across Apple devices. While the company didn't officially unveil a foldable iPhone at this year's WWDC, there are suspicions that Apple may release a contender soon to go up against other companies' foldable devices. 

 

Foldable phones have been available for several years, but have been mostly led by brands such as Samsung and Huawei. Industry reports and supply chain leaks are the primary fuel that suggest Apple is moving closer to entering the foldable smartphone market, and if recent reports are accurate, that may mean consumers will get to experience the first foldable iPhone ever.

 

As anticipation ramps up, Apple users may start to wonder when an iPhone foldable phone may arrive, how much it might cost, and whether it can compete with established foldable phones already on the market. 

 

Foldable iPhone Release Date

 

Apple has not confirmed the existence of a foldable iPhone as of yet, but there are multiple industry analysts who expect the company's first foldable device to be introduced in late 2026 or sometime in 2027.

 

There are reports that suggest Apple is testing book-style foldable designs similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series. Our experts at TVCMALL also have reason to believe that Apple may be working closely with display suppliers to address concerns like visible creases and long-term durability ratings.

 

Until Apple makes an official announcement, keep in mind that any release date should be viewed as an estimated date. A separate release window from Apple can't be ruled out, though the company does have a development cycle that could lead to a tandem release with the iPhone 18 lineup.

 

Foldable iPhone Price

 

Foldable smartphones continue to be the most expensive devices on the market, and Apple won't likely make an exception in price point. Current predictions set the rumored foldable iPhone somewhere between $1,800 and $2,500 USD. 

 

Samsung and Huawei both have similar price points for their foldable devices, and Apple's historic pricing strategy will likely position the device as a flagship product aimed at users who want both a smartphone and a tablet-like experience in the same device.

 

While the expected price may seem high, Apple may justify the cost through premium materials, advanced display technology, and a deeper software ecosystem integration.

 

Foldable iPhone Features

 

Although Apple has yet to confirm the details of its first foldable iPhone, industry rumors have provided some insight into what the device could look like. Reports suggest that Apple may adopt a book-style folding design similar to the Google Pixel Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series, featuring a larger inner display designed for smoother multitasking, entertainment, and productivity.

 

The rumored foldable iPhone could feature a 7.8-inch foldable display paired with a 5.5-inch outer screen. To improve durability and reduce the appearance of the crease, Apple may use Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG) technology. Other expected features include side-mounted Touch ID, a 5,000–5,500mAh battery, up to 12GB of RAM, storage options up to 1TB, and a dual-camera system.

 

Foldable iPhone vs Samsung Z Fold vs Huawei Mate X 

 

Specification	Foldable iPhone (Speculative)	Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Series	Huawei Mate X Series
Available	Expected 2026-2027	Available Now	Available Now
Design	Book-style foldable	Book-style foldable	Book-style foldable
Main Display Size	Speculated 7.5-8 inches	7.6-8 inches	7.8-10 inches (varies)
Operating System	iOS	Android	HarmonyOS
Multitasking Capability	Expected advanced iOS features	Mature split-screen support	Strong multitasking tools
Camera System	Likely flagship-grade with room for improvement	Premium flagship cameras	Premium flagship cameras
Ecosystem	Apple	Samsung	Huawei
Starting Price	Estimated $1,800 - $2,500	Around $1,800 plus	Around $2,000 plus

 

Samsung's greatest advantage is its experience in the foldable device arena, as it released multiple generations of foldable phones. Huawei has also continued refining its foldable lineup with innovative designs in recent years. 

 

Apple's challenge will be convincing consumers that its approach to a foldable device offers enough advantages to justify entering a market that's already established. However, Apple has such a cult following, they could expect consumers to buy based on brand loyalty.

 

Conclusion

 

Although Apple hasn't officially announced a foldable iPhone, signs are pointing that direction. The company's arrival in the foldable device category within the next few years could become one of the most significant iPhone hardware changes in recent memory.

 

For mobile accessories sellers, preparation should begin before the product reaches store shelves. Foldable phones introduce new requirements to foldable iPhone cases, screen protectors, charging accessories, and storage solutions. 

 

Suppliers like TVCMALL continue to monitor developments early so that you're better positioned to THRIVE once Apple's foldable device becomes available. We have hundreds of thousands of SKUs to choose from in our inventory catalog, and we add more products every day as new devices roll out. Contact us today for help gearing up your next inventory shipment, or if you need help getting started from scratch.