One of the most hotly awaited tech launches of 2026 may have just been previewed, as a prominent leaker shares the first detailed look at Apple's rumoured foldable iPhone.
First Glimpse of the iPhone Fold
Jon Prosser, a YouTuber known for accurate Apple insights on his channel FrontPageTech, has published detailed 3D renders of what he claims is the 'iPhone Fold'. In a new video, Prosser stated that while 2026 will see only three new iPhone models, one of them will be revolutionary. "iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, oh and uh...this. This is the brand new iPhone Fold," he announced.
According to the leak, Apple's development team experimented with both clamshell and book-style formats before ultimately settling on a book-style design. This decision would place Apple in direct competition with Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series and Google's Pixel Fold line, both of which are expected to have new iterations by 2025.
Specs and Innovations to Rival Samsung
The leaked specifications suggest a device that closely resembles a standard iPhone when closed, featuring an outer display of around 5.5 inches and a thickness of roughly 9mm. Upon opening, users would be greeted with a large 7.8-inch tablet-like screen, with the device thinning to an impressive 4.5mm.
Perhaps the most significant claimed innovation addresses the perennial issue of screen creases in foldables. Prosser explained that Apple has 'completely subverted' this problem. The solution reportedly involves a specialised metal plate to disperse bending pressure and the use of liquid metal within the hinge mechanism, aiming to eliminate the visible and tactile crease that has plagued rivals.
On the camera front, the device is rumoured to house a total of four lenses: one on the outer display, two rear-facing cameras, and one internal camera for video calls. In a surprising move, Touch ID is said to be making a return, integrated into the power button which will be relocated to the top of the device, replacing Face ID for biometric security.
Launch Timeline and Premium Price Tag
While rumours have circulated for years, the leak suggests a near-certain launch window of September 2026. Prosser quipped, "After years of companies like Samsung pioneering and perfecting the foldable form factor, Apple finally decides that 2026 is the year to pretend they're doing it too."
The design will reportedly be offered in a conservative colour palette of only black and white. However, the most eye-watering detail may be the price. Prosser indicated the iPhone Fold will be 'very, very expensive', with an estimated cost between $2,000 and $2,500.
As is standard practice, Apple remains silent on all speculation. When approached by the Daily Mail in September after the iPhone 17 launch, John Ternus, Apple's Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering, declined to comment, stating, "You probably know we never talk about anything in the future."
