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| The Apple iPhone Fold will reportedly debut with an unusually wide aspect ratio. |
December 21, 2025 — A fresh set of CAD-based renders is fueling intense speculation about Apple's long-rumored foldable iPhone, pointing to a radically different "wide" design that could reshape expectations for the entire category. Leaked schematics suggest Apple is moving away from the tall, narrow form factor popularized by competitors like Samsung, opting instead for a squatter device that closely mimics the screen ratio of an iPad mini when unfolded.
The renders, reportedly obtained by a German outlet from an accessory manufacturer, provide the most detailed look yet at the potential dimensions and design of the device, tentatively dubbed the iPhone Fold. If accurate, Apple's entry into the foldable market will be a direct challenge to Samsung's dominance with a fundamentally different vision for what a folding phone should be.
The Leaked Specs: A New Shape Emerges
The leaked documents indicate the iPhone Fold will measure 120.6 x 83.8 x 9.6 mm (4.75 x 3.30 x 0.38 in) when closed. This makes it notably 11 mm wider and 0.7 mm thicker than the current Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7, but a substantial 38 mm shorter.
This compact, almost square-like form when folded hints at Apple's unique approach. The cover screen is said to be a 5.3 to 5.49-inch display with a high resolution of 2,088 x 1,422 pixels. This is significantly smaller than the 6.5-inch outer screen on Samsung's flagship foldable, prioritizing a more pocket-friendly closed state over a full-sized phone experience.
When opened, the device reportedly transforms, revealing a 7.76-inch main display with a resolution of 2,713 x 1,920 pixels and an unfolded footprint of 167.6 x 120.6 mm. This inner screen is designed to be used in landscape orientation, giving it a 4:3 aspect ratio similar to an iPad mini, though the tablet remains slightly larger overall
A Direct Clash with Samsung's Vision
Apple's rumored design philosophy represents a clear break from the current foldable mainstream. For a detailed visual comparison of how the leaked iPhone Fold dimensions stack up against its chief rival, the information reportedly originated from iPhone-Ticker.de, which published the CAD renders. You can find their original report (in German) here.
To give context to the competitive landscape, the current Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is available for purchase on platforms like Amazon. For reference, you can see its latest pricing and details here: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 on Amazon.
The following table highlights the key dimensional differences, underscoring Apple's "wide and short" approach versus Samsung's "tall and narrow" design:
Beyond Dimensions: Rumored Features and Apple's Signature Touches
The CAD images also reveal design cues familiar to Apple users. The renders depict a pill-shaped rear camera module reminiscent of the iPhone Air, housing what is rumored to be a dual 48MP camera system. In a significant potential shift, the device is shown with a side-mounted fingerprint sensor (Touch ID), suggesting Apple may forego the complex Face ID system to achieve its slimness goals.
Perhaps the most ambitious rumor is that Apple has pursued a "crease-less" or "nearly invisible" crease for the folding display "regardless of cost". Solving the visible crease has been a persistent challenge for foldable makers, and Apple's alleged focus on this issue explains its delayed market entry. The company is rumored to be using a custom hinge design involving liquid metal and specialized glass from suppliers like Corning to enhance durability and minimize the fold line.
Market Impact and Expected Timeline
Analysts believe Apple's entry could significantly boost the entire foldable segment. While foldables represented a small fraction of global phone sales in 2024, Apple's brand power and integrated ecosystem are expected to attract new users. The device is predicted to command a premium price, with estimates ranging from $2,000 to $2,500.
The current consensus among reliable analysts points to an official announcement in September 2026, likely alongside the iPhone 18 series. However, some reports caution that early production challenges could mean smooth, widespread availability may not stabilize until 2027. As with all pre-release Apple rumors, these details should be treated with cautious optimism until the company makes an official announcement.
