It seems like the Apple vs Samsung saga continues. This time, it comes as a new Apple foldable IPhone that can give the Galaxy Z Fold 6 a run for its coin. Analyst Ming Chi Kuo released a lengthy report on a blog, announcing his prediction for the new device, including pricing, features, and release.
New Foldable IPhone
The TF International Securities’ analyst has been a long time predictor of Apple trends. Through connections he has in the industry supply chain, he has offered reliable and mostly accurate predictions of the Tech company giant. This time, his report showcases a brand new IPhone model that’s foldable, offering a book style device that can turn into a mini tablet. Kuo shares that the price would range between $2000 to $2500. This isn’t unrealistic, as Samsung’s Galazy Z Fold Z sells for about $1800. And we also know the customer base of Apple will spend a good amount of money due to brand loyalty.
This foldable design will also be AI-driven, following the steps of Google and Samsung. This will allow for multiple functions to be handled at the same time manually and through the AI system. Moreover, Kuo estimates for the internal screen to be a crease-free, 7.8 inch display. In effect, making it smaller than the current IPad Mini 7. When closed, the the IPhone could measure about 9mm. This would make it thicker than the current IPhone 16 and its Pro version by less than 2mms. Naturally, the thickness halves when the IPhone opens up, making it thinner than the 2024 IPad Pro, and thinner than the predicted, upcoming IPhone 17 Air.
There is a chance that due to the thinness of the device, other convenient elements such as Face ID will be eliminated. Instead, there is a chance that Touch ID will make a return, similar to older Apple models. Moireover, the design could potentially have a titanium alloy and hih density battery. Lastly, the phone would have a two-lense rear camera and one lense front camera, available in both folded and opened states.
Release
With an expected release in Late 2026/ Early 2027, the analyst explains design specifics should be done halfway through this year, to start production as soon as possible. However, given the complexity of its design, mass production will be difficult. Therefore, the volume of production will be significantly smaller than precursor devices. Nevertheless, if successful, the second generation of Apple foldable Iphones could increase mass production.
is this a sign that foldable phones will make a return to mainstream? Checkout the full analysis of Kuo right here.