Samsung was the first big smartphone brand to launch a flip-style foldable smartphone. The Galaxy Z Flip debuted in 2020, and since then, there have been questions about whether Apple would launch a foldable iPhone. There have been several rumors about Apple testing the foldable phone technology. Now, it is being reported that the first foldable iPhone will be launched in 2026.
Apple could launch first foldable iPhone as a rival to Galaxy Z Flip 8
According to a report from DigiTimes, Apple is developing a foldable iPhone that could debut in 2026. Apple formally began the research and development for its foldable iPhone this year. Since the company has a typical smartphone development cycle of two years, the company is likely to launch the foldable device in 2026.
The report claims that the first foldable iPhone will have a top-down folding form factor, similar to the Galaxy Z Flip 6. Moreover, when the device is unfolded, it reportedly has dimensions similar to current iPhones. It will likely challenge the Galaxy Z Flip 8, which could launch in the second half of 2026.
The iPhone maker has reportedly signed a display panel supply contract with Samsung Display, which is great news for Samsung. While a foldable iPhone brings a tough challenge, the electronics group will likely earn a lot of money by supplying foldable OLED panels.
Samsung needs to be well prepared for the foldable iPhone challenge. By the time it launches the Galaxy Z Flip 8, it needs to solve the display crease issue, make better use of the cover screen, and bring better cameras and a bigger battery.
Previous reports claimed that Apple was thinking of gauging interest in foldable devices by launching a foldable iPad and maybe a foldable display MacBook. However, the new report claims that the company has now decided to launch a foldable iPhone due to challenges faced in the Chinese smartphone market. Due to falling iPhone sales in China, the company might have thought that launching a foldable device would improve sales.
Samsung is reportedly developing more foldable devices, including a foldable tablet with a dual hinge mechanism. However, no credible proof has surfaced to support that claim.
