Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone could reach the UK market in late 2026 at a starting price close to £1,900, according to multiple supply-chain leaks emerging from Asia. The device, widely referred to as the iPhone Fold, is expected to feature the largest battery ever fitted to an iPhone, a redesigned internal layout, a hole-punch front camera and Touch ID integrated into the power button, replacing Face ID. Apple has not officially confirmed the model, but the volume and consistency of recent reports indicate that development is at an advanced stage and that launch preparations are under way. This is reported by The WP Times editorial team.
What the iPhone Fold is and why it matters
Apple’s first foldable smartphone is expected to mark the most significant redesign of the iPhone since the introduction of Face ID in 2017. Unlike existing models, the iPhone Fold would be built around a flexible inner display that unfolds into a larger, tablet-style screen while remaining compact enough for single-handed use when closed.
Strategically, the device would serve as Apple’s response to foldable smartphones already on the market from Samsung, Huawei and Google. Commercially, it is expected to sit above the Pro and Pro Max models, creating a new ultra-premium tier within the iPhone lineup rather than replacing existing flagships.
Design and physical layout
According to a leak from the Weibo account Instant Digital, Apple has redesigned the physical layout of the device to accommodate the folding mechanism and internal components. Reported changes include:
- volume buttons relocated to the top-right edge, similar to recent iPad designs;
- a power button on the right side with integrated Touch ID;
- an additional button, believed to be linked to camera or AI functions, also positioned on the right edge.
Leakers suggest these decisions are driven by internal architecture rather than aesthetics. The motherboard is said to be positioned predominantly on the right side of the device, leaving the left side largely free of buttons and wiring. This space is reportedly reserved for the hinge assembly, layered displays and battery components.
Display technology and biometric choices
The iPhone Fold is expected to drop Apple’s Dynamic Island in favour of a single hole-punch front camera. This change aligns with reports that the device will not support Face ID, instead relying solely on Touch ID embedded in the power button. Unconfirmed but widely reported display features include:
- a high-brightness inner OLED panel designed for productivity and media consumption;
- improved scratch resistance compared with earlier generations of foldable displays;
- anti-reflective coatings intended to reduce glare when the device is unfolded.
Speculation continues around Apple Pencil compatibility, but there is currently no reliable evidence that the iPhone Fold will include a built-in digitiser.
Rear camera layout
Leaks indicate a notable departure from Apple’s current camera design language. Rather than a diagonal or vertical arrangement, the iPhone Fold is expected to feature:
- two rear cameras aligned horizontally;
- the flash and microphone positioned alongside the lenses;
- a contrasting black camera strip set against the rear panel.
So far, only a white finish has appeared in leaked materials, though analysts expect additional colours to be offered at launch, particularly for European markets.
Battery capacity and internal efficiency
One of the most significant claims concerns battery size. By reorganising internal components and minimising hardware along one side of the device, Apple is said to have created space for the largest battery ever fitted to an iPhone.
While exact capacity figures remain undisclosed, battery life is expected to be a central focus. Limited endurance has been a persistent criticism of early foldable smartphones, and sources suggest Apple is prioritising real-world longevity over minimal thickness.
Expected launch timeline in the UK
Apple has not announced a foldable iPhone. However, based on supply-chain indicators and the frequency of recent leaks, analysts expect:
- a formal announcement in late 2026;
- UK availability approximately one to two weeks after the global release.
The device is expected to launch alongside other flagship Apple products rather than at a dedicated event.
Pricing expectations
Foldable smartphones currently occupy the highest price segment of the market, with UK prices typically ranging between £1,700 and £1,900. Apple is widely expected to exceed this range.Industry estimates place the iPhone Fold at:
- £1,899 to £2,199 in the UK, depending on storage configuration.
This would position the device above the iPhone Pro Max as a halo product designed to showcase Apple’s engineering capabilities rather than drive mass adoption.
The iPhone Fold appears to combine elements of Apple’s thin-and-light design approach with the usability of a compact tablet. Rather than competing on novelty alone, the reported design choices suggest a focus on durability, battery efficiency and long-term everyday use — areas where competing foldables have faced sustained scrutiny.
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