- Apple is likely working on two foldable phones set to debut in 2026.
- The first strategic launch is of a 18.8" iPad/Mac hybrid in Q2 2026 followed by foldable iPhone by end of 2026.
- The move will allow Apple to refine its foldable technology before rolling out on a large scale across foldable iPhones.
Ever heard about Apple foldable phones? Well, they are in the making, and we just got some news for you (wink!). According to Apple analyst Jeff Pu, the Cupertino-based giant might launch not one but two foldable devices in 2026. Okay, I understand that the timeline appears to be delaying, but let’s hope for the best. It does feel far-stretched given the fact that we haven’t heard anything concrete about the foldable yet, but there’s still hope Apple will debut these devices ‘SOON’.
Rumor Mills are Churning Hot Intel About Apple Foldable Phones
If you follow Apple news, you will know there have been plenty of rumors about Apple’s foldable devices. Right from a flip-style iPhone to an 18.8” hybrid of an iPad and MacBook, a lot is riding in Apple’s court.
The latest update is coming from Jeff Pu according to whom, the hybrid iPad and MacBook-styled foldable device will see broad daylight sometime in Q2 of 2026 — that’s almost 1.5 years from now. A foldable iPhone is in the works as well, and it could arrive later that year i.e., end of 2026 probably sharing the stage with the iPhone 18 series. Another set of rumors suggests we might see the announcements with the iPhone 17 series while the market release will be pushed to the end of 2026 as aforementioned.
Pu is optimistic about the above-mentioned timelines also because Apple recently secured a supply contract for the foldable panels to be used. Reports propose 2026 will be a landmark year for Apple as it gears up to redefine technology be it with the use of foldable iPhones to Macs. There will be heavy usage of Apple Intelligence (AI) on these devices as well.
Related
Apple Trailing Behind its Competitors
It is also true that Apple is trailing behind its competitors. In contrast, Samsung’s first-ever foldable device was announced in 2019 while Huawei, Xiaomi, Oppo, and many other OEMs are already rolling out their foldable devices like wildfire.
With that being said, Apple’s approach towards foldable technology might be behind unless there’s something out of the ordinary on-board Apple foldable phones that we haven’t seen with others yet.
As 9to5Mac points out, rolling out iPad/Mac hybrids seems like a safer choice since a foldable iPhone would sell like hotcakes. Apple won’t have the bandwidth to refine its supply chain, components, and technologies in use. Opting for larger hybrid Macs is the safest bet the company could do before switching to iPhones.
