The buzz around the first foldable iPhone is growing stronger every week. According to recent reports and analyst leaks, Apple’s upcoming foldable device could launch in the second half of 2026. The foldable iPhone will feature some of Apple’s most advanced internal hardware, including the A20 Pro chip, built on TSMC’s 2nm process. But surprisingly, it may lack Face ID and come with just 12GB of RAM, showing that Apple might make trade-offs in key areas.
In this article, we’ll explore everything we know so far—leaked specs, rumors, and design expectations—for Apple’s highly anticipated foldable iPhone.
📌 Highlights of the Foldable iPhone So Far
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Expected launch: Second half of 2026
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Processor: A20 Pro, based on 2nm architecture
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Display: Crease-free OLED panels from Samsung
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RAM: 12GB
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May lack Face ID
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Possible camera compromises
🔧 Powered by A20 Pro Chipset: The Most Advanced iPhone CPU Yet
According to UBS analysts and tipster @Jukanlosreve, the foldable iPhone will feature Apple’s upcoming A20 Pro SoC. This processor is expected to be built on TSMC’s 2nm process, which would offer better performance and battery efficiency compared to the 3nm A17 Pro chip found in the iPhone 15 Pro.
This makes it one of the most powerful smartphone processors ever made. Apple is reportedly developing it with AI performance and energy optimization in mind. You can expect smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and improved AR and camera processing.
Learn more about Apple’s chip progress at TSMC’s website.
🖥️ Crease-Free Foldable OLED Display by Samsung
The foldable iPhone will also get a crease-free OLED screen, supplied by Samsung Display, which has experience making high-quality foldable panels for the Galaxy Z Fold and Flip series.
Leaked specs mention two displays:
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An inner foldable screen (likely around 7.9 inches)
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An outer cover display for standard smartphone usage (approx. 6.3 inches)
The crease-free nature of the inner panel will be a major selling point, especially compared to the visible creases in Samsung’s own foldable phones. This will help Apple stand out in the premium foldable segment.
🚫 No Face ID? A Major Change in Apple’s Security System
One of the most surprising leaks is that the foldable iPhone may not include Face ID. The reason? Design complexities of the foldable form factor.
To keep the device thin and elegant, Apple might have to ditch the Face ID sensors, which typically take up more space. Instead, the company could go with:
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Under-display Touch ID
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Or a side-mounted fingerprint sensor
It’s not confirmed yet, but if true, this would mark the first premium iPhone in years without Face ID.
🧠 Limited to 12GB RAM: Is That Enough?
The leak also mentions that the foldable iPhone will feature 12GB of RAM. While this is more than enough for most users, it's less than Android competitors, such as the Galaxy Z Fold5, which comes with 16GB RAM in some models.
Apple is known for optimizing iOS to run efficiently with less RAM. But some power users might expect more from a phone that will likely cost over $2000. If the final version sticks to 12GB, Apple will need to justify it with superb performance and software smoothness.
📷 Camera Compromises May Be Necessary
Camera specs haven’t been confirmed yet, but analysts suggest that the foldable iPhone could make some trade-offs in camera hardware. To keep the phone slim and foldable, Apple might:
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Use smaller sensors
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Skip periscope lenses
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Reduce the number of lenses
That said, Apple is known for software-based camera enhancements. So even with possible physical limitations, the camera quality could still be excellent, especially for casual users.
For reference, check out the current foldable leader Galaxy Z Fold6 on Samsung’s site.
📅 Expected Launch Timeline and Availability
According to multiple sources, the foldable iPhone will be unveiled in late 2026, possibly at Apple’s September keynote.
There’s no official name yet, but some speculate it might be called:
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iPhone Fold
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iPhone Flip
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iPhone V
Apple is likely testing several prototypes to find the best mix of durability, battery life, and usability. It will likely be a limited release initially, possibly launching in the U.S., Japan, and select EU countries.
💰 Expected Price of Foldable iPhone
While pricing hasn’t been leaked, analysts expect the foldable iPhone to start around $1799 to $2199. This pricing would position it above the iPhone Pro Max line, making it a luxury flagship device.
Factors influencing the price:
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Samsung’s high-end OLED panels
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TSMC’s expensive 2nm chip production
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Limited availability
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Apple’s brand premium
📈 Foldable iPhone: Worth the Wait?
The foldable iPhone could redefine what an Apple smartphone can be. With a powerful A20 Pro chip, crease-free display, and likely stunning design, it’s shaping up to be an iconic product.
But some concerns remain:
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No Face ID
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RAM limits
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High price tag
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Camera trade-offs
If you’re a tech enthusiast, Apple fan, or someone who loves foldables, this could be the phone to wait for in 2026. But if you care more about value or prefer traditional designs, this might not be for you.
🔗 Final Thoughts and Further Reading
We still have over a year before the official release. In that time, we can expect:
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More leaks
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Patent reveals
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Beta software clues
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Apple supply chain updates