The Anticipation of Apple’s Folding iPhone: What’s in Store?
As of now, the much-anticipated folding iPhone seems to be lingering in development limbo alongside projects like AirPower and the Apple Car. Nonetheless, persistent rumors suggest that its release is indeed on the horizon, though it may come with a hefty price tag.
Stunning Price Estimates
Ming-Chi Kuo has provided insights suggesting that Apple’s inaugural foldable device could be priced between $2,000 and $2,500. This would not only make it the priciest iPhone ever created but also position it against top-tier configurations of MacBook Pros. Notably, this price surpasses that of competitors like the Galaxy Z Fold6, which is currently available at approximately $1,600.
Revolutionizing User Interaction with AI Features
The upcoming phone is touted as a “genuine AI-driven smartphone,” offering innovative functionalities such as simultaneous interaction with a travel planning chatbot while navigating through a maps application. However, there are delays affecting Apple’s anticipated upgrade to Siri—dubbed ”conversational Siri”—which was originally slated for introduction in iOS 19 but has now been postponed until at least 2027 under iOS 20.
Design Specifications Highlighted
Kuo outlines an intriguing design for this foldable device: it will feature a book-style format incorporating a 5.5-inch external display that unfolds into an expansive 7.8-inch screen. Impressively noted is its crease-free display backed by advanced materials consisting of stainless steel and titanium alloy for its hinge mechanism. When folded, it’s expected to have dimensions ranging from 9mm to 9.5mm thick; when unfolded, it’ll measure between 4.5mm and 4.8mm thick—a remarkable feat compared to Oppo’s Find N5 which holds the title for thinnest foldable phone under nine millimeters when folded—and contrastingly thicker than the current standard set by the iPhone 16 Pro Max at just over 8mm.
Camera Capabilities and Biometric Features
This forthcoming folding model will include dual rear cameras along with front-facing camera functionality available regardless of whether it’s opened or closed—a significant convenience for users engaging in video calls or selfies on-the-go. In line with modern security preferences yet diverging from Face ID technology seen in recent models, this device will likely incorporate Touch ID integrated within the power button similar to what exists on newer versions of the iPad mini.
A Long Wait Ahead?
Despite all these exciting features being discussed openly by Kuo and other analysts reflecting industry speculations regarding timelines indicate mass production not starting until late 2026, pushing any potential launch into 2027—assuming no further setbacks occur along this journey which has already seen multiple delays extending back several years.