Apple’s first folding iPhone may sport a display smaller than Samsung’s recently unveiled Galaxy Z Fold 7. It will supposedly pack a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.8-inch internal screen — both smaller than the Z Fold 7.
Other book-style foldables from Chinese companies also pack larger outer and inner displays.
Apple’s folding iPhone might go small to stand out
Rumors surrounding Apple’s first foldable iPhone have picked up pace in recent months. Multiple concrete reports point to the company unveiling the phone alongside the iPhone 18 in 2026.
Apple is seemingly even developing iOS 27 with a focus on the foldable iPhone and how to handle its two screens with different resolutions.
Adding more fuel to the folding iPhone rumors, research firm TrendForce says the folding iPhone may launch in H2 2026. More importantly, it will feature a 5.5-inch external display and a 7.8-inch internal screen.
For comparison, Samsung’s current flagship fold — the Galaxy Z Fold 7 — sports a 6.3-inch outer screen and an 8-inch inner folding display. Even Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold packs a 6.3-inch outer and an 8-inch inner display.
So, if accurate, Apple’s first folding iPhone could be smaller than other rivals on the market. This might work in Apple’s favor, as smaller displays should enable the company to make the foldable lighter and compact.
At least, it will be a crease-free screen
Apple currently sources OLED panels for its iPhones from Samsung Display. The company will supposedly rely on the same vendor for the folding iPhone’s display. And apparently, Apple will use Samsung Display’s cutting-edge display that’s virtually crease-free.
TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently mentioned that Apple will use an innovative internal hinge to reduce the stress on the folding screen. This will seemingly help minimize creasing.
Despite the rumored smaller display and a late 2026 launch, Apple plans to charge a fortune for the foldable iPhone. Its prices could purportedly start from $2,000 and may even go all the way up to $2,500.
