Apple has signaled active development of a foldable iPhone and aims to introduce a new device within the next two years. This information originates from The GizmoChina report, which cites a South Korean source known as Alpha Biz.
According to Alpha Biz, a foldable iPhone could debut as early as September 2026, with Apple targeting an initial shipment of about 50 million units. That ambitious goal would mark a dramatic expansion beyond today’s foldable market size and reflects Apple’s confidence in a product that could redefine premium mobile experiences.
To accelerate progress, Apple has brought in engineers from the Vision Pro mixed reality headset team to contribute to the foldable project. The cross-pollination within Apple underscores a strategic effort to tackle durability and reliability challenges associated with flexible displays, leveraging the Vision Pro team’s experience in solving tough technical problems.
Alpha Biz reports that Cupertino is exploring two foldable iPhone concepts. One prototype resembles the Galaxy Z Flip, while the other mirrors the Galaxy Z Fold. The latter is favored because its larger, sturdier chassis can accommodate more robust and durable mechanical systems, which is essential for a device that folds without compromising performance or longevity.
GizmoChina notes a measured, iterative approach from Apple as the company seeks to refine the foldable concept before release. This cautious yet aspirational strategy aims to address current industry hurdles and set the foundation for distinctive, premium foldable devices that could position Apple prominently in a nascent market segment in the years ahead.
Earlier discussions have highlighted Apple Music as a significant platform update, suggesting a broader effort to enhance the ecosystem around future hardware introductions. This context points to a holistic strategy where software and services align with the anticipated hardware evolution, delivering a cohesive user experience across devices.