The Upcoming Foldable iPhone: What We Know So Far
Key Highlights:
- Apple is set to unveil its first foldable iPhone in September 2024, simultaneously with the iPhone 18 Pro series.
- The device will feature advanced specifications, including a dual-screen design and a new Touch ID integration.
- Starting prices are projected to range from $1,800 to $2,500, marking it as the most expensive iPhone to date.
As confirmed by multiple sources, Apple is gearing up for the anticipated release of its first foldable iPhone in September 2024. This launch coincides with the debut of the iPhone 18 Pro series, setting the stage for a significant milestone in Apple’s smartphone evolution.
Production Timeline
The foldable iPhone has officially entered the "New Product Introduction (NPI)" phase at Foxconn, with trial production expected to commence between late Q3 and early Q4 of this year. Large-scale production is slated for Q2 2025, indicating that the device is well underway in its development lifecycle.
Design and Build
Adopting a "book-style" in-fold design reminiscent of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold, this foldable device will have a slim profile, measuring between 9mm to 9.5mm when folded. When fully expanded, it will be a mere 4.5mm to 4.8mm thick, making it thinner than the iPhone Air. The device will utilize titanium metal to further enhance its lightweight feel.
To improve durability, the hinge will be constructed from a combination of titanium alloy and stainless steel, featuring a unique liquid metal component. This innovative design aims to strengthen the hinge while minimizing screen creases.
Screen Specifications
The new foldable iPhone will incorporate a dual-screen design that includes:
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External Screen: A 5.5-inch display with a resolution of 2088×1422 and a pixel density of 460 PPI, complete with a punch-hole camera for quick access and daily tasks.
- Inner Screen: A larger 7.8-inch display boasting a 2713×1920 resolution, a 4:3 aspect ratio, and a pixel density of 428 PPI. Notably, the inner screen features a built-in metal stress dispersion plate for a "nearly crease-free" experience and incorporates self-healing coating technology for enhanced scratch resistance.
Both screens will utilize flexible OLED technology, support HDR display, and maintain Apple’s renowned color accuracy while featuring ProMotion adaptive refresh rates ranging from 1 to 120Hz.
Performance Capabilities
Expected to be powered by the upcoming A20 series chip, the foldable iPhone will come equipped with LPDDR5X memory and UFS 4.0 storage capabilities, offering performance comparable to that of contemporaneous iPhone Pro models. Additionally, it will feature Apple’s second-generation self-developed C2 baseband and will entirely rely on eSIM technology, omitting a physical SIM card slot.
Battery and Charging
The foldable iPhone will house a high-density battery similar to that of the iPhone 17 Air. Charging options will include 40W wired fast charging and 15W MagSafe wireless charging, aligning with Apple’s focus on efficiency and user convenience.
Innovative Features
In a significant design shift, Face ID will be omitted in favor of a Touch ID integration via side buttons, akin to that used in the iPad. This marks a return of fingerprint recognition after several years, optimizing internal space within the device.
The camera system will include four cameras in total: a single front punch-hole camera on the outer screen, another on the inner screen, and a dual-camera rear setup. The main rear camera will feature a robust 48-megapixel sensor, equipped to support advanced optical image stabilization.
Expected Pricing and Future Prospects
Pricing for the foldable iPhone is projected to be between $1,800 and $2,500 in the U.S., making it the most expensive iPhone ever released.
Additionally, Apple is simultaneously exploring the development of foldable iPads, expected to hit the market by 2028, featuring screens that expand from 18 to 20 inches.
In summary, Apple’s foray into foldable technology is poised to redefine the smartphone landscape, blending premium design with cutting-edge functionality. Keep an eye on September 2024 for what promises to be a game-changer in mobile technology.
