Apple is preparing to launch its first foldable iPhone by the end of 2026, and it is expected to resemble Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold lineup, according to Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman. In the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Gurman reveals that the upcoming device may feature several components made by Samsung, including parts for the display and hinge mechanism.
The foldable iPhone, which could be named “iPhone Fold”, is anticipated to carry a price tag exceeding $2,000 and will not introduce a radically new interface or groundbreaking hardware in its initial version. Instead, Apple is said to be focusing on refining the foldable experience and building on existing designs that have proven successful in the market.
One of the key developments in Apple’s foldable iPhone will be a specially designed hinge system developed in collaboration with Fine M-Tec and Samsung. This new hinge is expected to reduce the crease on the internal display, addressing a common complaint seen in current foldable phones. Despite the design similarities with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold, the iPhone Fold will feature Apple’s signature software experience.
According to Gurman, Apple aims to ensure its foldable software works seamlessly with the hardware. The company is expected to release iOS 27 next year with features specifically optimized for foldable devices. Meanwhile, this year’s iOS 26 will debut a redesigned user interface called “Liquid Glass,” setting the stage for the foldable experience.
Gurman believes the iPhone Fold could become a commercial success despite its high price, given Apple’s strong brand loyalty and ecosystem. He also highlights that even though the phone will compete directly with the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7, Samsung may still benefit financially as a key component supplier to Apple.
The foldable iPhone will enter a competitive space that already includes book-style foldable smartphones from companies like Honor, Huawei, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and Samsung. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is currently Samsung’s thinnest foldable, measuring 8.9mm when folded, only slightly thicker than the 8.8mm Honor Magic V5. For comparison, Apple’s current flagship, the iPhone 16 Pro Max, is 8.25mm thick.
With a refined design, premium components, and foldable-optimized software, Apple is positioning its entry into the foldable market as both a strategic and high-end move that could redefine the segment.