Rumors of a foldable iPhone have swirled for years, but according to a bombshell report from renowned tech analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is finally ready to leap into the foldable arena. Sources close to the company suggest the tech giant plans to launch a revolutionary foldable iPhone with a “book-like” hinge design as early as 2025, positioning it as a ultra-premium flagship device with a price tag expected to exceed $2,000.
A New Era for iPhone Design
Apple’s foldable iPhone, internally codenamed “Project Atlas,” reportedly features a vertical folding mechanism similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip series but with key refinements. Unlike competitors’ models, Apple’s design allegedly incorporates a titanium alloy hinge and a proprietary display technology to minimize creasing—a common pain point in foldables.
According to Kuo’s latest analysis on X/Twitter, the device will boast two displays: a 6.8-inch primary screen when unfolded and a compact 4-inch exterior panel for notifications and quick interactions. “This isn’t just a folding phone; it’s a statement,” Kuo wrote. “Apple aims to redefine premium smartphones by merging portability with cutting-edge engineering.”
Display Innovation and Hybrid Ambitions
Leaks from supply chain partners, reported by AI News Tech, reveal that Apple is testing multiple display sizes, including a larger 8-inch variant that could blur the line between iPhone and iPad. This aligns with speculation that the company is exploring a hybrid device capable of functioning as both a phone and a tablet—a concept further detailed here.
Industry insiders suggest the foldable iPhone will feature an OLED panel sourced from Samsung Display, with Apple’s custom LTPO technology enabling adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. The exterior screen, meanwhile, could utilize a new micro-LED setup for enhanced brightness and durability.
Pricing Strategy: Luxury Meets Technology
With an estimated starting price of $2,499, the foldable iPhone would become Apple’s most expensive smartphone to date—a bold move in an increasingly competitive market. Analysts speculate the device will target high-income professionals and tech enthusiasts, leveraging Apple’s brand loyalty to justify the cost.
“This isn’t about mass adoption—it’s about dominance,” said Jessica Lin, a consumer tech strategist at Creative Solutions. “Apple wants to own the narrative around foldables, even if it starts as a niche product.”
Challenges and Competition
While Apple’s entry validates the foldable category, challenges remain. Durability concerns, app optimization for dual screens, and consumer skepticism around price could hinder uptake. Rivals like Samsung and Huawei already offer foldables at lower price points, though none have matched Apple’s ecosystem integration.
Moreover, Apple faces pressure to differentiate its foldable beyond hardware. iOS 21 is rumored to include foldable-specific features, such as split-screen multitasking and dynamic app scaling, which could sway productivity-focused users.
The Road Ahead
If successful, Apple’s foldable iPhone could pave the way for a new generation of devices, including foldable iPads and MacBooks. However, with production reportedly limited to 5–8 million units in the first year, availability may be scarce.
As the 2025 launch window approaches, all eyes are on Cupertino. Will Apple’s gamble on foldables pay off, or will it become a luxury novelty? One thing is certain: the smartphone landscape is about to get a lot more flexible.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.