Apple’s First Foldable iPhone: Ultra-Thin Design, Touch ID, and a $2,500 Price Tag?

Apple’s first foldable iPhone is expected to feature a book-style design rather than a flip-style form. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts Apple will finalize its specifications by Q2 2025, with mass production beginning in Q4 2026. The device may cost between $2,000 and $2,500. It is expected to be ultra-thin, measuring 9-9.5mm folded and 4.5-4.8mm unfolded, aided by Apple’s new high-density battery technology. Face ID might be replaced by Touch ID on the side button.

The 5.5-inch cover screen and 7.8-inch inner display are designed to minimize creasing. A titanium frame and dual-camera system are also expected. Apple is also working on a larger foldable device, similar to two iPad Pros, but it may not launch before 2028.

Apple’s First Foldable iPhone: Ultra-Thin Design, Touch ID, and a $2,500 Price Tag?

Apple is reportedly moving forward with plans for its first foldable iPhone, which is expected to feature a book-style design rather than the previously rumored flip-phone format. According to supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the company aims to finalize the device’s specifications by the second quarter of 2025, with mass production projected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. The foldable iPhone could debut with a price range between $2,000 and $2,500.

Expected Features of Apple’s Foldable iPhone

Kuo’s analysis suggests that Apple’s foldable iPhone will resemble ultra-thin book-style foldable smartphones currently on the market. The device’s folded thickness is estimated to be between 9mm and 9.5mm, while its unfolded profile could measure between 4.5mm and 4.8mm. This slim design is likely enabled by Apple’s high-density battery technology, which is also expected to debut in the ultra-thin iPhone 17 “Air” model later this year.

To maintain a sleek build, Apple may need to make trade-offs, including the possible removal of Face ID sensors in favor of a Touch ID sensor embedded in the side button.

Display, Build, and Camera Specifications

The foldable iPhone is anticipated to feature a 5.5-inch cover screen alongside a 7.8-inch inner display with minimal creasing. Its hinge may incorporate stainless steel and titanium alloy, while the casing could be made from titanium, similar to Apple’s Pro iPhone models. The camera setup is expected to include a dual-lens system on the back and front-facing cameras on both the cover and inner display.

While these details are still subject to change, Apple is expected to finalize the design by mid-2025, with a second-generation foldable iPhone possibly entering production in the latter half of 2027, hinting at an annual upgrade cycle similar to its standard iPhone lineup.

Apple’s Foldable Ambitions Beyond iPhones

Beyond the foldable iPhone, Apple is reportedly developing a larger foldable device approximately the size of two iPad Pros placed side by side.

Bloomberg previously reported that Apple has been working to minimize display creasing, a key focus in its foldable technology development. This innovation aims to address a common issue found in current foldable smartphones, where visible creases on the inner display affect the overall user experience. Apple is reportedly investing heavily in new hinge designs and display materials to ensure a seamless fold with minimal distortion.

Beyond the foldable iPhone, Apple is also developing a larger foldable device, potentially the size of two iPad Pros placed side by side. This device is expected to target a hybrid category, bridging the gap between tablets and laptops, offering both portability and enhanced productivity. Reports suggest it could incorporate a flexible OLED or microLED display, possibly featuring Apple’s next-generation M-series chips for improved performance. However, this larger foldable is still in early development stages and is not expected to launch before 2028.