Highlights

• Apple’s foldable iPhone has reached the P1 prototype stage with a potential launch in the second half of 2026 if development stays on track.
• The iPhone Fold may feature a titanium body, a 7.58-inch display, and dual 48MP cameras, with Apple aiming to eliminate display creases seen in rival foldables.
• Apple has reportedly paused development of the iPad Fold due to manufacturing challenges, high costs, and low demand for large foldable devices.

Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone, which is casually referred to as the iPhone Fold, might finally become a reality next year. According to a new report, the device is on track for a possible launch in the second half of 2026 with early prototypes already being tested. Meanwhile, the same report also reveals that the Cupertino Giant may have decided to put iPad Fold on hold as of now. Here’s more on the latest leaks.

iPhone Fold Hits First Major Prototype Stage

The foldable iPhone is said to have reached the P1 (Prototype 1) stage last month, which is when Apple builds fully functional hardware units for initial testing. Before this, Apple typically goes through a series of mockups and breadboard models to fine-tune the design and internals.

Although reaching the P1 stage is a key step, it’s still early. There are two more prototype phases to go before the device can enter the EVT (Engineering Validation Test) phase, where Apple checks if the design can be mass-produced effectively.

The reveal comes from a latest Digitimes report, which states, “Apple has quietly entered the early stages of developing its long-rumored foldable iPhone, with supply chain sources confirming that the company began its initial P1 (Prototype 1) phase in June. If everything stays on track, the device could complete prototype testing by the end of 2025 and proceed to the Engineering Verification Test (EVT) stage, setting the stage for a possible launch in the second half of 2026.”

As expected, Apple is sticking to its “best, not first” philosophy. While other companies have already released foldable phones (some with visible issues like display creases), Apple is reportedly working hard to eliminate that flaw entirely.

In fact, Apple is pushing its display partner Samsung to create a screen that’s more advanced than the one used in Samsung’s own foldables.

iPhone Fold – Specs Still Not Finalised

While official specifications are still undecided, a leaker has shared some early details. The iPhone Fold is rumoured to feature a titanium body, a 7.58-inch display, and dual 48MP rear cameras.

Some reports believe that the design language seen in the upcoming iPhone 17 Air could have served as a testing ground or design preview for the foldable iPhone.

iPad Fold Development on Hold

While the iPhone Fold is moving ahead, Apple’s other foldable project known as the iPad Fold appears to be on pause. The same Digitimes report suggests that development of the foldable iPad has been halted, at least for now.

Aaron Lee and Sherri Wang write at Digitimes, “Sources familiar with the matter say Apple had also been exploring a foldable iPad alongside the iPhone. However, the company has decided to pause progress on the larger foldable device for the time being. Industry experts attribute this decision to manufacturing difficulties, increased production expenses—particularly related to flexible display technology—and a relatively modest consumer demand for larger foldable devices.”

Previously, predictions for its launch varied widely. Analyst Jeff Pu expected it in 2026, while Mark Gurman believed we might not see it before 2028 or later. Now, the longer timeline seems more likely, assuming it even launches at all.

As of now, Apple seems to be waiting to see how the iPhone Fold performs before committing to two foldable products. As noted in the report, demand for large foldables like tablets hasn’t been very strong yet.

If the iPhone Fold turns out to be a success next year, Apple may revisit and finalise the specs for the iPad Fold in time for a potential 2028 release.

FAQs

Q1. What stage is the iPhone Fold currently in?

Answer. The foldable iPhone is said to have reached the P1 (Prototype 1) stage, which is when Apple builds fully functional hardware units for initial testing.

Q2. What are the rumored specifications of the iPhone Fold?

Answer. The iPhone Fold is rumoured to feature a titanium body, a 7.58-inch display, and dual 48MP rear cameras.

Q3. Why has Apple paused development of the iPad Fold?

Answer. Apple has decided to pause progress on the iPad Fold due to manufacturing difficulties, increased production expenses, and relatively modest consumer demand for larger foldable devices.

Also Read: Samsung-Made Displays for Foldable iPhone Could Be More Advanced Than Galaxy Z Fold

Also Read: Apple’s First Foldable iPhone – What We Know About the Design, Release Date, and Price