In the ever-evolving smartphone race, one question has persisted for years: Will Apple enter the foldable phone market? With competitors like Samsung, Huawei, and Motorola already offering foldable devices, Apple fans and tech analysts alike are eagerly watching for any signs that the iPhone maker is ready to join the trend. And now, in 2025, the speculation is hotter than ever.
The Foldable Buzz: What’s Fueling the Hype?
Apple has not officially confirmed any plans to launch a foldable iPhone — but that hasn’t stopped the rumor mill from churning. Over the past few years, multiple patent filings have surfaced showing Apple’s interest in foldable displays, hinge mechanisms, and dual-screen interfaces.
One recent patent, filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, details a self-healing display that could potentially reduce creases — one of the biggest complaints about current foldable devices. Another shows a clamshell-style design, similar to the Galaxy Z Flip, sparking debate over which form factor Apple might favor.
Industry insiders suggest Apple is taking its time to perfect the design, rather than rushing a product to market. Known for its focus on user experience and long-term reliability, Apple may be waiting until the technology matures before committing to a full launch.
Prototypes, Leaks, and Analyst Predictions
Several leakers with reliable track records — including Ross Young and Ming-Chi Kuo — have hinted that Apple is working on multiple foldable prototypes, with screen sizes ranging from 7.5 to 8 inches. Kuo previously predicted that a foldable iPhone could arrive in 2026 or later, depending on production capabilities and market readiness.
Recent rumors suggest that Apple has partnered with LG and Samsung Display for testing foldable OLED panels, but nothing has been confirmed.
Meanwhile, a few foldable iPhone concept videos and mockups have gone viral online, portraying everything from iPad-mini-sized foldables to iPhones that flip open vertically like a compact mirror. While visually stunning, these remain speculative.
What Could a Foldable iPhone Look Like?
If and when a foldable iPhone launches, here’s what we might expect:
- Foldable OLED or MicroLED screen with minimal creasing.
- MagSafe-compatible folding hinge system with durability.
- Seamless iOS software integration for multi-window and multitasking use.
- A premium price tag — likely above $1500, in line with Apple’s pro-tier pricing.
Apple might position the foldable iPhone as a hybrid device — bridging the gap between iPhone and iPad, appealing to creative professionals, gamers, and power users.
Final Verdict: Not If, But When?
While there’s no official confirmation, all signs suggest Apple is actively exploring foldable technology. With its competitors refining their foldable offerings, it’s only a matter of time before Apple joins the movement — but likely on its own terms, and when the product is polished to perfection.
Until then, the foldable iPhone remains one of the most anticipated and closely watched tech developments in the mobile space.