Apple is shaking things up with its iPhone release strategy. The tech giant is reportedly planning to introduce its first-ever foldable iPhone in 2026, while pushing back the release of the standard iPhone 18 models to 2027.
This move marks Apple’s most significant design shift since the introduction of larger-screen iPhones and reflects the company’s cautious entry into the foldable smartphone segment.
The foldable iPhone, according to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, is expected to debut alongside Apple’s premium lineup, likely the Pro models, as the company prioritizes high-end devices with higher margins and cutting-edge features.
MacRumors believe Apple has been working extensively on hinge durability, crease reduction, and long-term reliability, areas where the company has historically waited for technology to mature before entering a new category .
The delay of the standard iPhone 18 series to 2027 suggests Apple may be moving toward a staggered launch cycle, allowing the foldable iPhone to command the spotlight without competing directly with lower-priced models.
Unique features
According to MacRumours, when unfolded, this device could be just 4.5mm thick, making it Apple’s thinnest device by far, beating even the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, which currently holds the title at 5.1mm thick. When folded, the new device will measure between 9mm and 9.5mm.
Incredible! Imagine a phone that folds in half and is still thinner when open than an iPad Pro.
Display features
According to leaks, the inner unfolded display will measure in at 7.76 inches with a 2,713 x 1,920 resolution, whilst the outer display (when folded) will measure in at 5.49 inches with a 2,088 x 1,422 resolution and a 4:3 aspect ratio.
The foldable iPhone would likely target early adopters and premium buyers, while the delayed standard iPhone 18 models would cater to users seeking a more familiar form factor at a lower price point.
“Supply chain smoothness is one of the key challenges for this year, and the marketing strategy change also played a part in the decision (to prioritize premium models),” an executive at an iPhone supplier with direct knowledge of the plan told Nikkei Asia.
