iPhone Fold Rumored to Launch with Crease-Free Display — But Expect a Premium Price Tag
What we know about the upcoming iPhone Fold
According to a recent report, Apple is working on a foldable iPhone — widely referred to as the iPhone Fold — that could be among the first to feature a truly crease-free inner display. TechSpot+2MacRumors+2
The inner screen is reportedly supplied by Samsung Display, but Apple is said to handle the panel structure, lamination, and materials — including collaboration with hinge-component specialists. That combination may be key in eliminating the usual fold-line visible on competing foldables. TechSpot+2TechSpot+2
Further, about 100 prototype units are already built — indicating the project has moved beyond research and is currently in the “engineering verification” stage. 9to5Mac+1
Likely Features & What to Expect
- Crease-free OLED display: Apple aims to deliver a foldable screen with no visible crease, thanks to a revised internal structure and advanced materials. Investing.com+2MacRumors+2
- Book-style foldable design: The iPhone Fold is expected to use the “book” form-factor (opening like a small tablet) rather than a clamshell flip. 9to5Mac+1
- Outer + inner displays: Rumors suggest a large inner display (around 7.8 inches) and a secondary outer screen — giving flexibility when folded or unfolded. MacRumors+29to5Mac+2
- Biometric authentication via Touch ID (side button): To accommodate thinner design and folding mechanics, Apple reportedly plans to skip Face ID and rely on a side-button Touch ID sensor instead. 9to5Mac+1
- Potentially large battery: Some sources claim Apple is testing high-density battery cells — possibly exceeding 5,000 mAh — to compensate for the increased power demands of a large foldable display. MacRumors+1
Pricing & Timeline — The Catch
- High price tag likely: Early estimates place the iPhone Fold between USD 2,000–2,500 — making it perhaps the most expensive iPhone ever. That reflects high manufacturing costs for foldable OLED panels, advanced hinges, and tight tolerances. TechSpot+2MacRumors+2
- Tentative launch in 2026: Based on supply-chain reports and production-line planning, most insiders expect the iPhone Fold to debut sometime in the second half of 2026 — though Apple has not officially confirmed anything yet. MacRumors+2Investing.com+2
What This Could Mean for the Foldable Market
If Apple delivers on its crease-free promise, the iPhone Fold could mark a turning point for foldable smartphones. Many users previously dismissed foldables because of visible creases or lackluster durability. Apple’s entry might drive competitors — including Samsung and others — to accelerate development of similar crease-minimizing technologies. MacRumors+2Gadgets 360+2
For early adopters and tech enthusiasts, a premium foldable iPhone represents a bold “next-gen” leap — but the steep price and premium positioning suggest it may remain a niche, luxury device at first.
