After years of speculation and anticipation, Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone market is taking concrete shape. A flurry of recent leaks from credible sources has provided the most detailed look yet at the device's specifications, design philosophy, and potential market positioning. This information, emerging from supply chain reports and prototype data, suggests Apple is preparing a high-end, technologically distinct product that could redefine user expectations for foldables when it arrives next year.
Detailed Specifications and Design Philosophy
The most substantial leaks point to a device with a "wide and flat" folding form factor, featuring dual displays. The internal screen is reported to be approximately 7.58 inches, utilizing an under-display front-facing camera to achieve a completely uninterrupted viewing experience. The external cover screen is said to measure around 5.25 inches and will employ a punch-hole design with HIAA (Hole-In-Active-Area) technology to minimize the visual intrusion of the front camera. In a significant design shift aimed at reducing device thickness, Apple is reportedly abandoning Face ID for this model. Instead, it will reintroduce Touch ID, integrating a fingerprint scanner directly into the side-mounted power button. The camera system is expected to consist of a dual 48-megapixel array on the rear.
Reported Foldable iPhone Specifications:
- Form Factor: Wide, flat fold (clamshell)
- Internal Display: ~7.58-inch, under-display front camera
- External Display: ~5.25-inch, HIAA punch-hole camera
- Biometrics: Side-mounted Touch ID (Power Button); No Face ID
- Rear Camera: Dual 48MP sensors
- Key Feature: "No-crease" design via advanced hinge & Samsung display
- Internal Codename: V68
- Expected Launch: H2 2026
- Estimated Price: > USD 2000
Breakthroughs in Durability and Display
A primary challenge for any foldable is the visibility of the crease and the long-term durability of the hinge. According to reports, Apple has invested heavily in its proprietary hinge mechanism. When paired with advanced display panels supplied by Samsung, this engineering effort has reportedly led to a major breakthrough. Sources cited by Taiwanese media claim the device has achieved a "no-crease design," a milestone that would set it apart from many current competitors and address a common consumer complaint about foldable screens.
Leaked Product Roadmap and Internal Codename
Beyond the foldable iPhone, a separate and extensive leak has revealed internal codenames for a wide array of Apple's future products, providing a glimpse into the company's roadmap for the coming years. The list, reportedly extracted from a prototype device running an early build of software, includes numerous unannounced iPhones, Macs, iPads, wearables, and home devices. The foldable iPhone itself is identified by the internal codename "V68." Other notable mentions include a "tabletop robot" (J595), a more affordable "Vision Air" headset (N100), a "Cheaper Vision Pro" (N109), and next-generation MacBooks powered by upcoming M5 and M6 chips.
Select Leaked Apple Product Codenames:
- iPhones: iPhone 17e (V159), Foldable iPhone (V68), iPhone 18 Pro (V63)
- Macs: Low-cost A18 Pro MacBook (J700), M5 MacBook Air (J813/J815), M6 MacBook Pro (K114 series)
- Wearables: Vision Air (N100), Cheaper Vision Pro (N109), Apple Watch Series 12 (N237/N238)
- Other Devices: Tabletop Robot (J595), AirTag 2 (B589), HomePod mini 2 (B525)
Anticipated Launch Timeline and Premium Pricing
Current reports from the supply chain indicate that the foldable iPhone is progressing through engineering validation and pre-production stages. Barring any unforeseen delays, the consensus among analysts is for a launch in the second half of 2026. However, this innovation is expected to come at a significant cost. Early predictions from industry analysts suggest a starting price point above USD 2000, which would make it the most expensive iPhone ever released and firmly position it in the ultra-premium segment of the smartphone market.
Conclusion: A High-Stakes Debut
The emerging picture of Apple's foldable iPhone is one of a meticulously engineered, premium device that seeks to solve core user experience issues like the screen crease. By opting for a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and a refined hinge, Apple appears focused on creating a uniquely thin and durable product. While the projected price tag will limit its mainstream appeal, its success will be crucial for Apple to establish a foothold in the growing foldable segment and validate its design choices. As development continues toward a potential 2026 release, all eyes will be on whether Apple's first fold can deliver on these ambitious promises.