Apple’s Foldable iPhone: 2026 Release Date Leaked

As of 2024, foldable smartphones are no longer a novelty. Manufacturers like Xiaomi, OPPO, and Huawei have all released foldable phones, and Samsung recently unveiled its sixth generation of foldable devices. Despite calls for Apple to launch a foldable iPhone, such rumors have persisted without substantial evidence. However, recent credible reports suggest that Apple is indeed developing a foldable iPhone, with an expected release in 2026.

According to The Information, Apple is working on a foldable phone with the internal codename V68. This device will resemble the clamshell design of the Xiaomi Flip and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip. In February, The Information had already indicated that Apple was in the early stages of developing foldable iPhones and iPads, and recent updates from DigiTimes, sourced from the supply chain, confirm that Apple is actively preparing for the foldable iPhone project.

The foldable iPhone is anticipated to be Apple’s next major product. Last year, Apple launched the Vision Pro AR headset, a rare new product in recent years. However, since its official release at the end of last year, the Vision Pro has not achieved significant sales or market impact. Consequently, it is reported that Apple is adjusting the Vision Pro’s positioning and will pivot towards AI-driven products. The iPhone is expected to lead this new strategic direction, rather than a headset with a two-hour battery life.

With less than two months until the launch of the iPhone 16 series, existing rumors suggest that the new generation will not feature significant changes in appearance, focusing instead on performance and camera enhancements. This is likely to disappoint many Apple enthusiasts. Nevertheless, with the foldable iPhone slated for a 2026 release, users may have to endure two more years of incremental upgrades from Apple.