Among the major players in the smartphone industry, Apple stands out as the sole smartphone maker yet to unveil a foldable device. Samsung has already introduced five iterations of the Galaxy Z Fold series, Google joined the fray with its Pixel Fold last year, and OnePlus entered the scene with the OnePlus Open.
This prompts the question: What form might its eventual iPhone foldable device take? Will it be a compact iPad, potentially replacing the iPad mini, or could we anticipate a foldable clamshell iPhone? Here, let’s dive into what information we have regarding Apple’s much-anticipated foldable device.
Firstly, various analysts, including Ming-Chi Kuo and Mark Gurman, have alluded to alleged ongoing developments in Cupertino. Kuo, in 2022, talked about Apple’s debut of “foldable products,” speculating that it might take the form of either a “foldable iPad or a hybrid combining elements of iPad and iPhone.” Furthermore, Mark Gurman, renowned for his accurate insights from insider sources, said in 2021 that Apple’s inaugural foldable device could be on the horizon within two to three years.
We May See a Foldable iPad mini Before a Foldable iPhone
In recent developments, South Korean reports suggest that the anticipated foldable device may serve as a successor to the iPad mini. According to The Elec, Apple is in the early planning phases for a compact foldable iPad, with an expected introduction between 2026 and 2027. To narrow it down, this potential iPad could feature a screen size spanning 7 to 8 inches, possibly serving as a replacement for the current 8.3-inch iPad Mini.
Notably, both Samsung and LG are reportedly partnering with Apple in the collaborative effort to design the foldable panel for this device.
Clamshell iPhone?
According to a report by The Information, Apple is actively developing two sizes of foldable iPhones. The report indicates that these iPhones are designed to fold horizontally, adopting a clamshell-style form factor similar to the Galaxy Z Flip or the Moto Razr Plus. However, these potential models might not enter mass production either this year or in 2025.
Foldables Are Expensive, But What Can We Expect From Apple?
One factor to consider is the cost associated with foldable technology. Apple is already known for its premium pricing, especially with its ‘Pro’ lineup, which starts at $999 or Rs 1,34,900 in India for the iPhone 15 Pro. If Apple were to launch a foldable iPhone, it’s reasonable to expect a premium price tag. Given that it would be a first-generation device, Apple may need time to pick a mature and realistic pricing strategy.
Previous reports have hinted at an introductory price around $1,499. However, considering the pricing of competitors like the Galaxy Z Fold 5 or the Pixel Fold, which retail at $1,799, it will be intriguing to see what Apple eventually prices it at.
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