Apple’s Foldable iPhone Set for Wider Design Launch in 2026

Apple is advancing its development of a foldable iPhone, anticipated for release in the fall of 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 Pro. This device is expected to feature a unique wider design compared to existing Android foldables, such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold. According to a report by The Information, Apple’s foldable will likely adopt an aspect ratio akin to that of its largest iPads, offering a more horizontal layout when unfolded.

The design choice for a wider aspect ratio serves multiple strategic purposes. First, it allows for immediate recognition of the foldable iPhone amid a market filled with taller, book-style Android devices. This distinctive look could help Apple stand out in the increasingly crowded foldable market. Additionally, a wider screen aligns with Apple’s software ecosystem, particularly the multitasking capabilities of iPadOS 26, which is optimized for landscape orientation.

A foldable iPhone that unfolds into a widescreen format could enhance user experience significantly. For instance, running multiple applications side by side on a wider display is generally less cramped. Users could benefit from an interface where, for example, an iPad app’s sidebar occupies one half of the screen while the main content is displayed on the other. This would allow for improved organization of applications like Notes, Photos, and Files.

Moreover, the wider design is particularly beneficial for viewing media. Current foldables, such as the Z Fold 7 and Pixel 10 Pro Fold, often feature videos constrained by letterboxing, limiting their visual appeal. A wider screen would facilitate video playback in larger formats, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Users would be able to enjoy content in dimensions such as 16:9 or 2:1 without the interruption of thick black bars.

The foldable iPhone’s anticipated vertical crease may be less noticeable than in other models, as Apple reportedly has made advancements in this area. The broader screen not only caters to entertainment but also emphasizes the utility of foldable devices for consuming various types of content.

While Apple’s new design is innovative, it is important to note that a wide foldable phone is not a novel concept. Several other manufacturers have experimented with similar formats in the past, including the original Google Pixel Fold and the dual-screen Microsoft Surface Duo. Unfortunately, these devices did not achieve significant market traction, often due to issues with hardware or software optimization.

As Apple prepares to enter the foldable market, it has the opportunity to leverage its reputation for seamless integration of hardware and software. A pocket-friendly design that remains compact when closed could appeal to consumers who prefer portability.

With less than nine months remaining until the expected announcement of the foldable iPhone, further details are likely to emerge. It is noteworthy that the current schematics circulating online are based on concepts from forum members, rather than official leaks. As highlighted by MacRumors Senior Editor Tim Hardwick, the dimensions currently being discussed stem from a community-generated concept that dates back to May.

As the launch date approaches, the tech world eagerly awaits Apple’s approach to foldable technology and the potential impact on the smartphone landscape.