Highlights
- Apple’s first foldable iPhone may resemble two ultra-thin iPhone Air units side by side.
- Apple will likely manufacture the foldable iPhone in China due to its advanced hardware expertise.
- The device is projected to cost over $2000 and may launch alongside the iPhone 18 series in September 2026 with possible delays into Q4.
Apple rumour mills never sleep and we are not complaining. Apple’s latest iPhones have only just hit store shelves and VOILA, fresh details about next year’s lineup are already surfacing. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is preparing to launch its first-ever foldable iPhone in 2026 with new insights on its design, pricing, and release schedule now coming to light.
Foldable iPhone Design Inspired by iPhone Air
In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman revealed that Apple’s foldable iPhone may look like two iPhone Air units placed side by side, creating what he describes as a “technical marvel.” The device is also expected to feature a titanium chassis, aligning with Apple’s push toward premium build materials.
Gurman writes, “As for how the foldable iPhone will look, I am increasingly told that users should imagine two titanium iPhone Airs side-by-side. In other words, it’s going to be super thin and a design achievement.”
This detail fuels long-running speculation that the iPhone Air was designed as a precursor to Apple’s foldable ambitions, serving as a testbed for the company’s next big leap in smartphone design.
Manufacturing to Remain in China
Despite ongoing efforts to diversify production, Gurman notes that Apple will likely manufacture the foldable iPhone in China citing the region’s established expertise in advanced hardware. While recent reports suggested that Apple might shift foldable iPhone production to India, Gurman clarified that “at least” some production will stay in China.
Historically, Apple has retained the manufacturing of its most complex devices with long-time Chinese partners who already possess the necessary technological capabilities. It remains to be seen if future models will be part of Apple’s India expansion plans.
Expected Price and Release Timeline
When it comes to pricing, Gurman suggests that the foldable iPhone will cost at least $2000. Earlier rumours placed the price point between $2100 and $2300, reinforcing the idea that this device will sit firmly in the ultra-premium category.
As for availability, Apple is expected to unveil the foldable iPhone, most likely called the iPhone Fold, in September 2026. This means it will be launching alongside the iPhone 18 series. However, the report adds that the actual release could slip into October or November, similar to how Apple launched the iPhone X in 2017.
FAQs
Q1. What will Apple’s first foldable iPhone look like?
Answer. According to Mark Gurman, the device may resemble two ultra-thin iPhone Air units side by side, featuring a titanium chassis and showcasing Apple’s design innovation.
Q2. Where will the foldable iPhone be manufactured?
Answer. Despite speculation about India, Gurman reports that Apple will continue manufacturing the foldable iPhone in China due to its advanced hardware capabilities and established supply chain.
Q3. How much will the foldable iPhone cost and when will it launch?
Answer. The foldable iPhone is expected to cost over $2000 and may debut alongside the iPhone 18 series in September 2026, with a possible release delay into October or November.