Will the iPhone Fold Bend the Market?

Apple’s Groundbreaking Move into Foldable Phones

The first foldable smartphone from Apple, the iPhone Fold, is set to launch in the fall of 2026, alongside the iPhone 18 lineup. Touted as the most premium and technologically advanced iPhone to date, the device is generating much anticipation.

Remarkable Battery Advancements

According to supply chain information, the iPhone Fold will feature a 5500 mAh battery, a record capacity for Apple smartphones. For comparison, the Chinese variant of the iPhone 17 Pro Max contains a battery with 4823 mAh capacity. Apple aims to increase battery life without significantly increasing size by utilizing silicon-carbon anode technology, which incorporates silicon into the anode material to enhance energy density. Companies like Tesla are also exploring this material’s potential to improve charging speeds and battery lifespan.

The foldable iPhone will come equipped with an internal display around 7.8 inches. This will be an LTPO OLED panel from Samsung, supporting adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz and a roughly 4:3 aspect ratio. Samsung’s use of similar technology in its Galaxy Z Fold series has proven effective in optimizing battery consumption, paving the way for Apple’s efficient power management.

Innovative Display and Security Features

The external screen, around 5.3 inches, is designed for easy one-handed use. Instead of Face ID, the device will incorporate a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, offering a practical alternative for daily phone use.

The smartphone will have a dual main camera of 48 MP and will be the first Apple device to feature the SoC Apple A20 Pro.

Pricing and Market Positioning

JP Morgan Chase analysts predict the base version of the iPhone Fold to cost around $2000, with top configurations potentially exceeding $2500. These prices align with the broader trend in the foldable market, where devices like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold command high premiums of $1800 to $2500.