A Foldable iPhone May Be Coming in 2026, Here's What the Latest Leak Shows

1 hour ago 1

January 15, 2026 | 11:12 am

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Fresh leaks about Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone have resurfaced, offering more specific details about what could become the company’s next major breakthrough in the smartphone industry. The latest information suggests that Apple has entered the internal testing phase for the device.

According to well-known tipster Digital Chat Station, cited by technology site Gizmochina on Wednesday, January 14, 2025, the device, widely referred to as the iPhone Fold, is not being developed as a mere experimental product.

Instead, Apple is reportedly preparing it as a fully mature, industry-grade device, rather than a limited market test as seen in some early foldable phones from rival brands.

Display Size and Design Strategy

Leaks indicate that the iPhone Fold will feature an internal folding display measuring approximately 7.58 inches. The external cover screen is expected to be around 5.25 inches, slightly smaller than earlier rumors suggested.

The more compact dimensions of the engineering prototype are seen as a deliberate design choice by Apple. Analysts believe the company is prioritizing ergonomics and everyday usability, aiming to make the device comfortable to hold and practical for daily use, rather than focusing solely on larger screen size.

Focus on Design Maturity Over Raw Specs

Unlike many first-generation foldable smartphones that emphasized cutting-edge specifications, Apple is said to be concentrating on design refinement and display quality.

To support performance, the company is reportedly developing a new in-house application processor tailored specifically for the foldable form factor.

Fold-Optimized Software

Software development is also a key focus. Apple is rumored to be working on a new operating system variant designed specifically for foldable devices.

This system is expected to optimize multi-screen functionality and ensure smooth app transitions when the device is folded or unfolded, an area where foldable phones have historically faced challenges.

Possible Launch Timeline?

If development proceeds as planned, the iPhone Fold is expected to be unveiled in September this year. The launch would likely coincide with Apple’s annual flagship event, alongside the introduction of the iPhone 18 Pro series.

While Apple has yet to officially confirm the existence of a foldable iPhone, the growing number of detailed leaks suggests the company is moving beyond concept and closer to a commercial release.

Read: Apple Faces AI Chip Component Crisis

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