The upcoming Apple iPhone 17 event has everyone buzzing, but let’s not overlook the buzz surrounding the anticipated iPhone Fold, potentially launching in 2026. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has hinted at some exciting features and a long-term vision for Apple’s iPhone lineup.
The iPhone Air is set to kick off this new era, taking over from the Plus model. It features Apple’s first in-house modem chip, the C1 modem. This model aims to compete directly with Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge.
However, the iPhone Fold is what many are eagerly anticipating. Apple is reportedly working on a device that opens like a book, showcasing a larger inner display. This aligns with trends seen in Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
Gurman also mentions that Apple plans to equip this foldable with four cameras: one on the front, one inside, and two on the back. The combination aims to deliver high-resolution photos, even in a compact design.
Notably, the iPhone Fold will skip the SIM card slot, depending solely on Apple’s new modem for connectivity. In a surprising twist, it will return to Touch ID instead of Face ID. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests the Fold will be only about 4.5 to 4.8 mm thick when opened, which makes implementing Face ID less feasible.
Pricing might be a critical factor for consumer choice. Many foldable devices in the market are priced steeply, with the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 starting at around $1,099. Gurman speculates that Apple’s first foldable may follow suit, possibly starting in the four-figure range.
Looking further ahead, 2027 may bring a significant redesign of the iPhone, marking its 20th anniversary. Gurman indicates Apple could swap its signature squared corners for more rounded edges, coinciding with a new “Liquid Glass” interface set to enhance visual appeal on iOS 26.
This information aligns with growing consumer trends around design and functionality. With foldable phones gaining momentum, Apple may be stepping in at just the right time to capture a vital segment of the smartphone market. The excitement surrounding these innovations could redefine iPhone’s trajectory, making the coming years crucial for Apple enthusiasts.
For ongoing developments and detailed insights, you can follow news on platforms like Google News.
