Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone is finally taking shape and is now expected to launch in the second half of 2026. According to a new report, the Cupertino-based tech giant will rely on Samsung Display to supply the OLED panels for the device, after the South Korean manufacturer successfully reduced the crease on its foldable screens. With Apple now in the mix, the competition in the foldable smartphone market is expected to intensify.
Display
A recent report by BusinessKorea claims that Apple has chosen Samsung Display as its exclusive supplier for foldable OLED panels. Samsung is reportedly producing screens that show minimal creasing, a factor that may have swayed Apple away from alternatives like LG Display and BOE.
The foldable iPhone is rumoured to feature a 5.5-inch outer display and a larger 7.8-inch inner screen, making it a compact yet productivity-focused device when unfolded. Samsung is expected to start producing these OLED panels by the end of 2025 or early 2026, setting the stage for a product launch in the second half of 2026.
Design
Apple may be taking cues from its iPad lineup for the design of the foldable. Leaks suggest that the company could use an almost 4:3 aspect ratio similar to the iPad Air and iPad Pro models. This approach could help with app and interface compatibility, especially during the early days of software optimisation for the new form factor.
With a foldable screen this size and ratio, the foldable iPhone might feel like a mini-iPad when opened, giving users a tablet-like experience in their pocket.
Production
Initial production numbers for Apple’s first foldable smartphone are expected to be higher than early estimates. The company could manufacture up to 15 million units, about 6 million more than previous projections. This move hints at Apple’s confidence in its upcoming product, even though foldable phones still represent a niche market segment.
The foldable iPhone will directly compete with the likes of Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series, as well as foldables from Oppo, OnePlus, Huawei, Vivo, and Honor.
Price
As expected with any first-gen Apple product, especially one with cutting-edge tech, the foldable iPhone won’t come cheap. Analysts predict a price tag around $2,300 in the US (roughly Rs. 1,97,000). Earlier reports also suggested a pricing range between $2,000 (around Rs. 1,71,400) and $2,500 (around Rs. 2,14,200). That would make it significantly more expensive than the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which is currently Apple’s priciest smartphone.
Here’s a quick summary of what’s expected:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cover Display | 5.5-inch OLED |
| Inner Display | 7.8-inch OLED |
| Panel Supplier | Samsung Display |
| Production Start | Late 2025 or early 2026 |
| Launch Timeline | H2 2026 |
| Expected Units | Up to 15 million |
| Expected Price | $2,000 – $2,500 |
| Aspect Ratio | Nearly 4:3 (like iPad models) |
| Competitors | Samsung, Oppo, Huawei, OnePlus, Vivo |
Competition
Apple’s entry into the foldable segment is expected to shake up the space, especially in markets like the US where Samsung has so far led the charge. However, Chinese brands like Huawei, Oppo, and Honor have already carved out significant market shares in Asia and Europe. Apple will need to deliver not only premium hardware but also a seamless software experience that makes the foldable form factor more useful to mainstream users.
While Apple has yet to confirm any official details, these leaks and reports suggest that the company is taking a careful and calculated approach—waiting until the technology is refined enough before releasing its first foldable phone.
FAQs
When is Apple launching its foldable iPhone?
It’s expected to launch in the second half of 2026.
Who is making the OLED panels?
Samsung Display is the exclusive OLED panel supplier.
What will be the screen sizes?
It may have a 5.5-inch cover and 7.8-inch inner display.
How much will the foldable iPhone cost?
It may be priced between $2,000 and $2,500.
How many units will Apple produce?
Apple could produce up to 15 million units.
