Foldable iPhone rumors suggest Apple may launch an iPhone Flip or Fold between 2025–2027, priced at $2,000–$2,500. Here's everything we know so far.

Foldable iPhone Rumors: Everything We Know So Far in 2025

The smartphone world is abuzz with growing anticipation as foldable iPhone rumors gain traction. Apple has long been silent about entering the foldable phone market, but recent leaks and analyst predictions suggest something is brewing deep inside Cupertino’s labs. The elusive device—speculated to be called either the “iPhone Flip” or “iPhone Fold”—might hit the market as early as 2025 or as late as 2027, according to industry insiders.

In this article, we’ll explore the latest rumors, expected features, expert analyses, and potential release timelines for Apple’s foldable iPhone. Whether you’re a loyal iPhone user or a tech enthusiast keeping an eye on the future, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.

Foldable iPhone Rumors: Is Apple Really Entering the Foldable Market?

While Samsung, Google, and Huawei have been experimenting with foldable technology for several years, Apple has taken a different route—focusing on refining its core lineup of iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks. Yet, patents, supply chain leaks, and statements from credible analysts suggest that Apple is indeed working on a foldable iPhone.

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple has been testing prototypes internally. Ming-Chi Kuo, a trusted Apple analyst, claims the company might not release a foldable iPhone until it has perfected both hardware durability and software usability.

Why Apple Hasn’t Launched a Foldable iPhone Yet

Apple is known for waiting until a technology matures before entering a new product category. The company’s philosophy revolves around perfecting the user experience—both in terms of hardware and software.

Here are a few reasons Apple has held back:

Durability concerns: Foldable screens are prone to creasing and wear.
Software optimization: iOS must be adapted to handle folding screen transitions seamlessly.
Battery challenges: Maintaining Apple’s high battery life standards in a foldable format is difficult.
Premium pricing strategy: Apple may want to ensure high-end specs justify a $2,000–$2,500 price tag.

Foldable iPhone Design: Clamshell or Book-Style?

Leaked patents and renders suggest Apple is exploring multiple foldable designs, including:

1. Clamshell Flip Design

Similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series.
Compact and pocketable when folded.
Full-sized iPhone display when open.
Possible name: “iPhone Flip.”

2. Book-Style Fold Design

Comparable to Samsung Galaxy Z Fold or Google Pixel Fold.
Unfolds like a book to reveal a larger, tablet-like screen.
Could support Apple Pencil input and multitasking.
Possible name: “iPhone Fold.”

Apple may even consider releasing both designs, catering to different user preferences, similar to how it offers iPhones in multiple sizes.

Expected Features of the Foldable iPhone

Although no official specs are confirmed, rumors and patents offer a glimpse of what Apple’s first foldable iPhone might include:

✅ Ultra-Thin Glass Display

Apple is reportedly working with LG Display and Samsung Display on ultra-thin, foldable OLED or MicroLED screens that resist creasing and maintain high image quality.

✅ Apple Silicon Chipset (A19 or M-Series)

Apple is likely to power the foldable iPhone with a next-gen A-series or even M-series chip, ensuring superior performance for multitasking and complex animations.

✅ Multitasking and Split-Screen Features

A larger screen would enable iPad-like multitasking, including split-screen apps, drag-and-drop gestures, and floating windows.

✅ Enhanced Hinge Mechanism

Durability is key, and Apple is said to be testing revolutionary hinge systems to minimize creases and ensure long-term reliability.

✅ Face ID Under Display

Leaks suggest the foldable iPhone could be the first iPhone to feature under-display Face ID, eliminating the need for a notch or Dynamic Island.

✅ Premium Build and Materials

You can expect a foldable iPhone to feature aluminum or titanium chassis, Ceramic Shield glass, and water resistance.

Foldable iPhone Price Expectations

Most analysts agree that Apple’s foldable iPhone will be a luxury device, priced between $2,000 and $2,500. For comparison:

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Starts at $1,799
Google Pixel Fold: Starts at $1,799
Huawei Mate X3: ~$2,000

Given Apple’s pricing history and high build quality, a foldable iPhone in the $2,000+ range makes sense. The target audience would be early adopters, professionals, and tech enthusiasts who value cutting-edge innovation.

Foldable iPhone Launch Date: 2025, 2026, or 2027?

There’s a wide range of speculation regarding when Apple will officially unveil its foldable phone:

2025: Some insiders claim Apple could make a surprise announcement in late 2025, possibly alongside the iPhone 17 lineup.
2026: A more realistic date, aligning with Apple’s typical product refinement cycle.
2027: If challenges persist, the foldable iPhone may not see the light of day until late 2027.

Apple may also launch a foldable iPad first as a test case before committing to a foldable iPhone, allowing it to refine hardware and software on a larger screen.

How Will a Foldable iPhone Impact the Smartphone Industry?

If Apple releases a foldable iPhone, it could have significant ripple effects:

📱 Boost in Foldable Adoption

Apple's entry will likely legitimize foldables for mainstream users, leading to broader adoption globally.

🔄 iOS Redesign for Flex Screens

We might see a new version of iOS—possibly iOS Fold—optimized for foldable form factors, enhancing multitasking and gesture controls.

💼 New App Ecosystem

App developers will need to adapt UI/UX for folding screen transitions, creating new opportunities for innovation.

🏆 Market Realignment

Competitors like Samsung and Google may ramp up their efforts, triggering a second wave of foldable innovation.

What Experts Are Saying

🧠 Ming-Chi Kuo (Apple Analyst)

“Apple is in no rush. They want to perfect the folding experience before entering the market.”

💬 Ross Young (Display Supply Chain Expert)

“Apple is actively sourcing foldable display samples from multiple suppliers for evaluation.”

📰 Bloomberg (Mark Gurman)

“Multiple prototypes of a foldable iPhone are in testing, but launch may not happen before 2026 or later.”

Pros and Cons of a Foldable iPhone

Here’s a quick look at the potential ups and downs:

✅ Pros

Larger screen in a compact form
Next-gen Apple innovation
Advanced multitasking capabilities
Status symbol appeal

❌ Cons

High price tag
Potential durability concerns
First-gen software bugs
Shorter battery life (possibly)

Should You Wait for the Foldable iPhone?

If you're intrigued by foldable iPhone rumors but wondering if it's worth the wait, here’s a breakdown:

Wait If:

You love Apple innovation and want the latest form factor.
You’re comfortable spending over $2,000.
Your current iPhone works fine for now.

Don’t Wait If:

You need an upgrade soon.
You prefer proven, durable smartphones.
You’re hesitant about first-generation tech.

Conclusion: Foldable iPhone Rumors Point to a Bold Future

The foldable iPhone rumors swirling in 2025 paint an exciting picture. With possible names like iPhone Flip or iPhone Fold, and premium features in development, Apple appears poised to enter the foldable space—but only when it’s truly ready.

While the wait could stretch to 2026 or even 2027, Apple’s track record of late-but-great innovation suggests the end result will be worth it.

Whether you're a die-hard Apple fan or simply curious about the future of smartphones, keep an eye on this space—because the foldable iPhone may redefine mobile computing as we know it.

Foldable iPhone Rumors: What to Expect from Apple