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In a nutshell: Numerous rumors over the past few years have suggested that Apple is working on a foldable iPhone. Now, a new report from TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo indicates that potential buyers may want to start saving up, as the device is expected to come with a hefty price tag.
Kuo said the foldable iPhone is expected to cost between $2,000 and $2,500. Despite the steep price tag, Apple reportedly anticipates it will become a “must-have device,” particularly among its loyal fan base. Kuo also believes the foldable iPhone will drive “strong replacement demand,” provided there are no major issues with hardware quality or software optimization.
Kuo added that the hardware specifications for the foldable iPhone are likely to be finalized in the second quarter of this year, with the official project kickoff scheduled for the following quarter. If all goes according to plan, Apple will begin commercial manufacturing of the second-generation foldable iPhone in the second half of 2027.
According to Kuo, Apple is preparing the foldable iPhone as a “true AI-driven phone” with multimodal functionality and cross-app integration to stay in line with current smartphone trends. However, despite its high-end features, the device may forgo Face ID due to “internal space constraints.” Instead, Apple plans to integrate Touch ID into a side button.
Kuo also confirmed earlier reports that the foldable iPhone will feature a book-style design, similar to the Pixel Fold, rather than a flip-style format like the Galaxy Z Flip. It is expected to include a 7.8-inch crease-free inner display and a 5.5-inch outer display. The device will have a dual-camera setup on the rear and a front-facing camera accessible in both folded and unfolded states.
The foldable iPhone is expected to be 9 – 9.5mm thick when folded and 4.5 – 4.8mm when unfolded. Its hinge will be constructed from a combination of stainless steel and titanium alloy, while the casing is likely to be made of titanium alloy for added durability. The device is also rumored to use the same high-density battery cells as the iPhone 17.
Apple reportedly projects shipments of 3 – 5 million units in 2026, with production capped until 2027 due to manufacturing complexities. Once production scales up, Cupertino expects to ship as many as 20 million units in 2027.
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