The long-awaited foldable smartphone from Apple is no longer just a rumor. Fresh CAD leaks suggest that the upcoming iPhone Fold 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting smartphone launches of the decade. With a massive 7.76-inch foldable display, ultra-slim body, and premium hardware, Apple appears ready to redefine the foldable phone category.
Although Apple has not officially confirmed anything yet, multiple trusted leaks indicate that the company is carefully preparing its first foldable iPhone to ensure it meets Apple’s high-quality standards. If these reports are accurate, the iPhone Fold could become the most premium iPhone model ever released.
iPhone Fold 2026 Expected Release Date
According to industry insiders, the iPhone Fold release date is expected to fall in Fall 2026. Apple may unveil it alongside the future iPhone 18 Pro lineup. This timeline gives Apple enough room to perfect its hinge technology, software optimization, and durability—key concerns for foldable devices.
Reports also suggest that Apple plans to expand its iPhone lineup aggressively after 2026. By 2027, the foldable iPhone could sit at the very top of Apple’s product range, positioned as the ultimate premium smartphone.
7.76-Inch Foldable Display: Tablet-Like Experience
The biggest highlight of the iPhone Fold 2026 is its impressive 7.76-inch inner OLED display with a rumored resolution of 2713 × 1920. This screen size is slightly smaller than the iPad mini but large enough to deliver a true tablet-like experience for multitasking, gaming, reading, and content consumption.
When folded, the outer display is expected to measure 5.49 inches with a resolution of 2088 × 1422. This means users can comfortably use the phone without unfolding it, making it practical for daily tasks.
iPhone Fold Design and Dimensions (CAD Leak)
Leaked CAD renders reveal a book-style wide-fold design, similar in concept to existing foldables but with Apple’s unique proportions. The device is rumored to be:
- 9.6mm thick when folded
- 4.8mm thin when unfolded
- 83.8mm wide
- 120.6mm tall
These dimensions suggest a slimmer and more refined foldable than many current competitors, potentially making it easier to hold and use with one hand.
iPhone Fold vs Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
To understand Apple’s ambition, it helps to compare the rumored iPhone Fold with the current foldable leader, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6.
| Specification | iPhone Fold (Rumored) | Galaxy Z Fold 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Inner Display | 7.76-inch OLED | ~7.6-inch AMOLED |
| Outer Display | 5.49-inch OLED | ~6.2-inch AMOLED |
| Folded Thickness | ~9.6mm | ~13.4mm |
| Battery | 5400–5800mAh | ~4400mAh |
| Processor | Apple A20 (Expected) | Snapdragon 8 Gen Series |
If these leaks are accurate, Apple may deliver a thinner body and significantly larger battery than its main rival.
Camera and Hardware Expectations
Camera leaks suggest a dual rear camera system along with front-facing cameras on both displays. While details about Dynamic Island or punch-hole design remain unclear, Apple is expected to prioritize photography, video calls, and content creation.
Under the hood, the iPhone Fold may feature the Apple A20 chipset, designed specifically to handle multitasking on a large foldable screen. Battery capacity is rumored to be between 5400mAh and 5800mAh, ensuring all-day usage.
Interestingly, Apple may replace Face ID with a side-mounted Touch ID to save internal space and reduce thickness—another sign of Apple’s careful engineering approach.
Why iPhone Fold 2026 Matters
The iPhone Fold 2026 is more than just another smartphone. It represents Apple’s entry into a category it deliberately avoided until the technology matured. With a refined design, powerful hardware, and Apple’s ecosystem advantage, this foldable iPhone could set a new benchmark for the industry.
If Apple gets it right, the iPhone Fold may not only compete with existing foldables but completely redefine what users expect from a premium smartphone.
iPhone Fold 2026 FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the expected release date of the iPhone Fold 2026?
The iPhone Fold 2026 is expected to launch in Fall 2026. Most leaks suggest Apple may introduce it alongside its premium iPhone lineup, possibly during the annual September event.
2. How big is the iPhone Fold display?
The iPhone Fold is rumored to feature a 7.76-inch inner foldable OLED display, offering a tablet-like experience. When folded, users will get a 5.49-inch outer display for everyday use without unfolding the phone.
3. Will the iPhone Fold be thinner than other foldable phones?
Yes, according to CAD leaks, the iPhone Fold could be around 9.6mm thick when folded and just 4.8mm when unfolded. This would make it noticeably thinner than many current foldable smartphones on the market.
4. What processor will power the iPhone Fold 2026?
The device is expected to run on the upcoming Apple A20 chipset. This processor will likely be optimized for multitasking, large-screen performance, and power efficiency on a foldable display.
5. Will the iPhone Fold support Face ID or Touch ID?
Leaks suggest Apple may replace Face ID with a side-mounted Touch ID on the iPhone Fold. This change could help save internal space and allow for a slimmer foldable design.
