Apple’s foldable iPhone may feature TouchID 2nm chip and crease free screen

Apple explores a new chapter

Apple is reportedly preparing to enter the foldable smartphone world, something fans have been waiting years to see. According to leaks, the company may showcase its first foldable iPhone in 2026.

Reports suggest the device is already deep in development under the internal codename V68. The foldable is likely to arrive around the same time as the iPhone 18 family, signaling one of the biggest shake-ups in Apple’s hardware design since the launch of the first iPhone.

Touch ID makes a comeback

Apple may surprise many by bringing back Touch ID in its upcoming foldable phone. This time, instead of being under the screen, the fingerprint sensor is expected to be placed in the power button on the side.

Some reports suggest suppliers such as Luxshare ICT may be involved in building these new side‑button Touch ID modules. A side-mounted sensor has already worked well on iPads, and it could provide reliable security for a foldable iPhone without adding extra thickness to its sleek frame.

Powerful chip leads the way

The foldable model is expected to use a new chip (rumored to be called the A20), which sources suggest may be among Apple’s first designed for TSMC’s 2‑nanometer process.

Compared to the current 3-nanometer generation, the new design promises major gains in speed and efficiency. That could mean faster apps, longer battery life, and better support for heavy tasks like gaming and creative editing.

Crease free screen design

One of the biggest issues with foldable phones so far has been the crease that runs down the middle. Apple is reportedly working on a screen that bends without leaving a visible mark.

Samsung Display is said to be involved in developing this special OLED technology. By avoiding that distracting line, Apple could offer a smoother and more natural viewing experience, which may give the foldable iPhone a big edge over competing models already on the market.

Dual screen experience

The foldable iPhone is rumored to feature both an outer display and a larger inner panel when unfolded.

When opened, the foldable iPhone is rumored to feature both an outer display and a larger inner panel when unfolded. The outer screen may be about 5.5 inches, with the inner display expanding to roughly 7.8 inches.

Slim and modern profile

Early leaks suggest the device could be about 9 millimeters thick when folded, and around 4.5 millimeters when unfolded, though these figures are unconfirmed.

That would make it slimmer than most current foldable phones, which often struggle with thickness. Apple’s ability to keep the profile thin while still offering durability could make the device more appealing to everyday users who dislike carrying heavy or clunky gadgets.

New modem generation

Alongside the A20 chip, Apple is expected to introduce a second-generation modem known as the C2. This modem will follow up on the C1 that appeared in the iPhone 16e.

The updated modem is expected to boost connectivity and deliver more reliable network performance. Faster and more stable connections could benefit streaming, video calls, and mobile gaming, giving the foldable model another edge for users who want speed without compromise.

Cameras on every side

The foldable iPhone may house a total of four cameras. Reports suggest a dual lens setup on the back, along with one selfie camera on each display. The main rear camera is expected to use a 48 megapixel sensor for high-quality shots.

The front cameras could feature 24 megapixel sensors, offering sharper selfies and clearer video calls, whether you are using the smaller cover screen or the unfolded larger display.

Titanium build rumored

Leaks hint that Apple could use titanium for the foldable iPhone’s frame. This metal is both lighter and stronger than traditional aluminum.

Some leaks suggest Apple may consider using titanium for the frame, which in principle offers increased strength over certain aluminum alloys, though any weight or durability benefits are speculative.

Larger battery capacity

Foldable devices typically require more power, and Apple seems to be preparing accordingly. Reports suggest the foldable iPhone could pack a battery between 5,000 and 5,500 mAh.

This capacity would be noticeably larger than most current iPhone batteries. Paired with the efficiency of the A20 chip, the bigger battery could help the device last comfortably through long days of work, entertainment, and communication without needing frequent recharges.

Fast charging support

Another expected feature is fast charging, which has become a must-have for modern smartphones. The foldable iPhone is rumored to support quick power top-ups.

Combined with the large battery, this capability means users would spend less time tethered to a wall outlet. Quick recharges can make a major difference in daily life, especially for people who rely on their phones for work, travel, or streaming on the go.

eSIM only model

Apple has been gradually moving away from physical SIM cards, and the foldable iPhone could take that step even further. Reports suggest the new device may only support eSIM technology.

Removing the physical slot helps save space and allows for a cleaner design. It also boosts durability since one less port means fewer points of dust or water entry. This move would continue Apple’s trend of shaping the future of mobile connectivity.

A high price tag expected

Early rumors suggest the foldable iPhone may launch at around $1999, which converts to a premium price for global markets. Foldable technology has always carried a higher cost.

If Apple follows its usual pattern, the foldable device will sit above even the Pro Max models in pricing. Buyers may see it as a luxury item that blends cutting-edge design with groundbreaking performance, aimed at those who want the latest innovation first.

Launch timeline revealed

Industry insiders believe the foldable iPhone will make its debut in September 2026. This timing would place it alongside the iPhone 18 series at Apple’s annual fall event.

That would make 2026 a major year for Apple, combining the regular flagship models with its first-ever foldable. If successful, this could change the iPhone roadmap for years to come, potentially sparking an entirely new category of Apple devices.

Competition is heating up

Samsung, Google, and other Android makers already sell foldable phones, some now in their sixth generation. These companies have set high expectations for durability, display quality, and hinge design.

Apple is arriving late to the foldable race, but history shows the company often waits until it can deliver a polished experience. If Apple manages to overcome issues like durability and creasing, it could quickly shift the balance in the foldable market.

Want to know which foldables are worth your money right now? Check out the top picks for the best foldable phones of 2025 for you.

Looking beyond the first model

Analysts believe Apple will not stop at just one foldable iPhone. A second generation is rumored to follow in 2027, the year marking the 20th anniversary of the iPhone.

This suggests Apple is planning a long-term commitment to foldable devices. If the first launch goes well, fans could see foldable versions of other Apple products like iPads or MacBooks in the years that follow, expanding the foldable future even further.

Want to make your iPhone charge faster without extra gadgets? See how you can speed up your iPhone charging with a few tips Apple doesn’t talk about.

If you’re excited about Apple’s foldable leap, share your thoughts in the comments section.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.