July 21, 2025 – Get ready for a major déjà vu moment in the smartphone world. After years of speculation, relentless patent filings, and intense industry pressure, Apple is finally poised to enter the foldable arena. Multiple sources deep within Apple's supply chain and corroborated by design analysts confirm to Bloomberg that the inaugural "iPhone Fold" is on track for a launch in the second half of 2026. And the biggest surprise? Early prototypes and specifications bear an uncanny resemblance to Samsung's current flagship foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
The report, detailed in Bloomberg's latest Power On newsletter, paints a picture of a device that leans heavily on the established "book-style" foldable format perfected by Samsung. This means users can expect:
- A Main Inner Display: A large, tablet-sized screen (rumored to be around 7.9 to 8.1 inches) that unfolds vertically.
- A Cover Screen: A narrower, traditional smartphone-sized outer display for quick tasks without unfolding the device.
- An Inward Fold: The screen folds inwards to protect the delicate flexible display when closed.
- A Visible Crease: Despite advancements, sources indicate Apple hasn't yet eliminated the subtle crease visible on the inner display, a hallmark of current foldable technology.
According to the detailed report in Bloomberg, Apple engineers have been meticulously studying the strengths and weaknesses of Samsung's foldables for years. While aiming for their signature premium materials and tighter software integration, the fundamental hardware layout appears to be a direct evolution of the Z Fold line.
"It's less about reinventing the wheel and more about perfecting it with Apple's polish," one source familiar with the project stated anonymously. "Think titanium hinges, potentially a more durable ultra-thin glass (UTG) solution, and obviously, deep integration with iOS."
Key Similarities & Potential Apple Twists:
- Form Factor: Near-identical book-style folding mechanism.
- Display Tech: Flexible OLED panels supplied by Samsung Display and LG Display.
- Hinge: A complex, multi-link hinge design focused on durability and achieving a flatter fold – similar goals to Samsung's latest "Dual Rail" hinge.
- Cameras: Expect a high-end multi-lens system on the rear, coupled with an under-display camera (UDC) on the inner screen for a cleaner viewing experience, mirroring the Z Fold 7's approach. A dual front camera system on the cover screen is also rumored.
- Software: This is where Apple hopes to shine. iOS will need a major overhaul with dedicated foldable features, potentially including enhanced multitasking, app continuity between screens, and optimized layouts that feel more native than Android's sometimes fragmented foldable support.
Why the Samsung Blueprint?
Analysts suggest Apple's decision to follow Samsung's lead is pragmatic. The book-style foldable has proven commercially viable and user-friendly. Developing a radically different form factor (like a clamshell or outward folding screen) would carry higher risks and potentially alienate users already familiar with the dominant foldable style. By adopting the established format, Apple can focus its R&D on areas where it can differentiate: materials, build quality, hinge reliability, display durability, battery efficiency, and, crucially, the software experience.
Market Impact & Pricing:
A 2026 launch positions Apple squarely against Samsung's anticipated Galaxy Z Fold 8. While late to the party, Apple's entry is expected to significantly accelerate mainstream adoption of foldables, legitimizing the category for many hesitant consumers. However, premium comes at a price. Industry watchers predict the iPhone Fold will command a significant premium, potentially starting well above the Z Fold 7's current $1,799 price point, possibly edging towards $2,000 or more.
Challenges Remain:
Despite the progress, significant hurdles remain. Perfecting the durability of the flexible display and hinge for millions of units is paramount. Battery life in such a thin, dual-screen device is always a concern. Integrating iOS seamlessly across two very different display sizes is a complex software challenge. And convincing users to pay a substantial premium over already expensive traditional iPhones will require a near-flawless execution.
The Verdict (For Now):
Apple's foldable iPhone is finally coming. While its 2026 debut feels like a long wait for eager fans, the strategy appears clear: leverage the proven foldable form factor established by Samsung, but infuse it with Apple's signature design language, materials, and a deeply integrated iOS experience. It won't be the first foldable, but Apple is betting it can be the most refined. As development progresses towards 2026, all eyes will be on whether Apple can truly leapfrog the current foldable kings or simply offer a luxurious, iOS-powered iteration of the familiar.
Read the full Bloomberg report detailing the early specifications and supply chain insights here
Apple, as usual, declined to comment on future products. The foldable future is taking shape, and it looks remarkably familiar, yet distinctly Apple.
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