The iPhone 17 launch is done and dusted, revealing not just the bold-looking iPhone 17 Pro series but also the ultra-slim iPhone Air. But what’s next? Based on the tip from Mark Gurman, an analyst who is spot on with all leaks and rumours related to the iPhones, it is now said that the iPhone Foldable could be the next big thing from Apple, coming out next year. And it might just look like two iPhone Airs glued together!
The iPhone Foldable has been in the rumours for a long time, promising a big change from the usual iPhone experience. While details have been largely scarce, rumours have suggested that Apple may reveal the foldable iPhone in late 2026, with a possible launch date in early 2027. Weirdly, nobody has predicted what this foldable iPhone will look like, until now.
iPhone Foldable to be as slim as iPhone Air
The highly anticipated foldable iPhone is rumoured to feature a unique design, resembling two iPhone Airs connected side-by-side. This translates to an iPhone Foldable that will be thicker than a Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, when folded shut. What’s even more surprising is its price tag – the phone is expected to start at a minimum of $2,000.
Gurman’s newsletter elaborates that the iPhone Foldable will rely on the Titanium chassis for structural rigidity and durability. Some rumours are even suggesting that when unfolded, the iPhone Foldable won’t be as thick as the iPhone Air’s 5.6mm. Instead, Apple could bring it down to as low as 4.6mm, thus making it almost as slim as the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
In preparation for this launch, Apple is reportedly establishing a pilot production line in Taiwan. This initial phase will allow the company to refine the manufacturing process and ensure high-quality standards before scaling up production. Following the pilot phase, mass production is expected to be ramped up in India, thus ensuring a strengthened supply chain.
iPhone Foldable to launch alongside iPhone 18
The launch of the iPhone Foldable is anticipated to coincide with the release of the iPhone 18 series in 2026. However, it may not follow the traditional September launch schedule. Instead, rumours suggest a possible release in October or November of 2026. This could position the iPhone Foldable as a device as capable as the iPads, which are usually unveiled in October of a launch year.
Apple has high expectations for its first foldable device. The company is targeting a huge boost in overall iPhone sales for the 2026 lineup, with a goal of shipping over 240 million units. The premium foldable is expected to create a “halo effect,” generating excitement and driving interest across the entire iPhone range.
