In recent years, there has been increasing news about the foldable iPhone. Although Apple has not yet officially confirmed the product name, specifications, or launch date, multiple leaks suggest that this could be the biggest design change to the iPhone product line in recent years.
According to current rumors, Apple's first foldable iPhone may adopt a "book-style" left-right folding design, with an outer screen of approximately 5.3 to 5.5 inches. When unfolded, the inner screen could be close to 7.8 inches, providing a size experience closer to a small iPad that can fit in your pocket.
Such a design also means that the way the iPhone is used may change. When closed, it still functions like a regular phone; when opened, it is more suitable for browsing the web, watching content, processing documents, and even multitasking. For users who are accustomed to completing most of their work with their phone, the foldable iPhone may not just be a new form factor but a new type of mobile device.
There are also rumors that Apple may pay special attention to the screen crease, hinge durability, and body thickness. It is rumored that the unfolded thickness may be around 4.5mm, and when closed, it may be around 9mm to 9.5mm. If this is true, it means Apple must strike a very precise balance between the screen, hinge, battery, and structural strength.
However, foldable phones also bring new protection challenges. Traditional phone cases mainly protect the corners, back panel, and camera area, but foldable phones also need to consider the hinge, inner and outer screens, unfolded thickness, grip, and whether closing the phone will affect the smoothness of opening and closing. For protective case brands, this is not just about "making the case bigger" but rethinking the entire structural design.
As for the launch date, most rumors currently point to 2026, and some sources even suggest it may debut with the iPhone 18 series. However, until Apple officially announces it, all information remains speculative from leaks and supply chain predictions. The actual specifications will depend on official announcements.
If the foldable iPhone is indeed launched, it may change not only the phone itself but also affect protective cases, screen protectors, stands, magnetic accessories, and daily usage. For us, the most important thing to observe is not whether it folds, but: when the iPhone truly folds, how will protective accessories evolve accordingly?
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Would it be difficult to make a protective case for a foldable iPhone? An analysis of hinges, screens, and structure