First foldable Apple iPhone might launch in 2026 or 2027

According to a new report from The Elec, Apple is planning to launch a device with a foldable display that has a size between 7 inches and 8 inches around 2026 and 2027. The publication also says that it could be the brand’s first device with a foldable screen.

Considering that the foldable display on this device will be around 7 inches to 8 inches, it will most likely be a smartphone. In other words, it could not be Apple’s first device with a foldable display but also the first foldable iPhone. However, The Elec says that rumors are going around about this device being a tablet and a replacement for the iPad mini. The latter, however, seems less likely due to multiple reasons.

Firstly, a tablet with a foldable display that’s just 7 inches to 8 inches in size doesn’t make sense. Secondly, Apple is planning to launch an iPad mini with an OLED display in 2026. So, if the upcoming device is a replacement for the iPad mini, why would Apple launch it immediately after launching the OLED iPad mini? It just doesn’t make sense. So, it is more likely that the upcoming device will be a foldable iPhone.

Reportedly, LG Display and Samsung Display supplied Apple with foldable display panels with a size between 6 inches and 7 inches last year. Considering that, the Cupertino-based tech giant might source the foldable displays for the upcoming device from the same two companies. These two manufacturers have also reportedly started producing OLED panels for the upcoming 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro models.