Apple’s iPhone Fold could be in your pocket later this year
A fresh report suggests that the iPhone Fold could land in late 2026
Apple’s foldable handset – commonly referred to as the iPhone Fold and a future contender for our list of the best foldable phones –could launch later this year, if recent reports prove to be true.
The news comes courtesy of Apple analyst Tim Long’s investment research note for Barclays (via MacRumors), who, after speaking with suppliers in Asia, has pointed to late 2026 as the most likely launch window.
More specifically, shipments of the iPhone Fold are expected to begin in December, a few months after the iPhone 18 series lands in September.
The news follows other recent leaks that suggest that the iPhone Fold will be a book-style foldable that opens into a tablet-like display, closer in size to an iPad Mini than a typical phone. CAD renders doing the rounds have also hinted at a slightly unusual hinge design, with a mix of rounded and squared corners when folded.
There’s also been movement on the software side. Separate reports suggest Apple could use that larger screen to introduce proper split-screen multitasking – something iPhones still don’t offer – with the interface shifting into a more iPad-like layout when unfolded.
If true, the rumours would put the iPhone Fold in line with existing foldables, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6.
Elsewhere, Long also stated that Apple has plans to release two other devices in March next year – an iPhone 18e, and potentially either an iPhone 18 Plus or even an iPhone Air 2.
As with all Apple rumours, everything remains firmly in speculation territory until Tim Cook and co. take the magical stage. But given how long iPhone Fold rumours have been circling the internet, we wouldn’t blame you for getting your hopes up for a 2026 launch. Stay tuned.
Esat Dedezade
Contributor 
