Apple's long-rumored entry into the foldable smartphone market is taking a clearer, if somewhat unconventional, shape. Newly surfaced information, including detailed CAD renders and specifications, paints a picture of a device that prioritizes a wide-screen experience in a compact form factor, potentially setting it apart from the taller, slimmer designs of competitors. The so-called "iPhone Fold" is shaping up to be one of the most technically ambitious and closely watched product launches of 2026.
Leaked Renders Depict a Distinctly Wide Form Factor
The latest glimpse into the iPhone Fold's potential design comes from CAD-based renders published by German website iphone-ticker. These images suggest a device with a notably "squat" or wide aspect ratio when unfolded. According to the renders, the unfolded dimensions are approximately 120.6mm in width and 83.8mm in height, creating a rectangle rather than a square. This design choice results in a 7.76-inch inner display with a diagonal measurement of 139.4mm, which is notably shorter but wider than many existing foldables. When folded, the device is reported to be 9.6mm thick, tapering down to a sleek 4.8mm (excluding the camera bump) when open, making it thinner than the current iPhone Air.
Key Design Highlights from Renders:
- Unfolded Dimensions: ~120.6mm (width) x 83.8mm (height).
- Screen Diagonal: 139.4mm (7.76-inch).
- Hinge Gap: 1.8mm when folded.
- Design Goal: "Crease-less" inner display via specialized hinge.
- Comparative Size: Unfolded screen is slightly smaller than the 8.3-inch iPad mini but with a wider aspect ratio.
Specifications Point to a High-Performance, Feature-Packed Device
Beyond its unique proportions, the rumored specifications for the iPhone Fold indicate Apple is aiming for a flagship-tier device. The core is expected to be powered by a next-generation A20 Pro system-on-chip, paired with 12GB of RAM. A significant shift in biometrics is also on the cards, with rumors strongly suggesting the inclusion of an in-display Touch ID sensor, potentially replacing the Face ID system used in current iPhones. For connectivity, Apple may debut its in-house C2 5G modem. The camera system is rumored to feature a 48MP dual-lens rear setup and a up to 24MP under-display camera for the main screen, aiming to solve the notch/hole-punch dilemma on the foldable display.
Reported iPhone Fold Specifications (Based on Rumors):
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Inner Display | 7.76-inch, 2713 x 1920 resolution (4:3 aspect ratio) |
| Cover Display | 5.3-5.49-inch |
| Form Factor | Book-style, "squat" rectangle when unfolded |
| SoC | Apple A20 Pro |
| RAM | 12GB |
| 5G Modem | Apple in-house C2 |
| Rear Camera | 48MP Dual-Camera |
| Inner Selfie Camera | Up to 24MP, Under-Display |
| Biometrics | In-Display Touch ID (rumored) |
| Battery | 5,400-5,800 mAh |
| Thickness (Folded/Open) | 9.6mm / 4.8mm (ex. camera bump) |
| Launch Window | H2 2026 |
| Estimated Price | ~ USD 2,399 |
| First-Year Shipments | 7-9 million units |
Design and Durability Focus: A "Crease-Less" Ambition
A primary challenge for any foldable phone is the visible crease on the inner display. Apple appears to be addressing this head-on with a reported "crease-less" design ambition. This would likely involve a complex hinge mechanism that prevents the screen from folding completely flat, maintaining a slight curvature to reduce stress. The renders show a 1.8mm hinge gap when closed. Furthermore, the device is said to incorporate a dedicated vapor chamber for improved thermal management, a critical component for sustaining the performance of the powerful A20 Pro chip during intensive tasks on the large screen.
Market Positioning and Launch Timeline
The iPhone Fold is not expected to be a mass-market device at launch. Reports point to a premium price tag of around USD 2,399, positioning it as a high-end niche product. It is also speculated to launch as an eSIM-only variant, continuing Apple's push towards digital SIM technology. Current industry whispers suggest a launch window in the second half of 2026, with first-year shipment estimates ranging between 7 to 9 million units. If these details hold true, the iPhone Fold will represent Apple's most daring and expensive iPhone yet, testing the market's appetite for a uniquely proportioned, ultra-premium foldable.