In the competitive landscape of smartphones, Apple stands as a martial arts master, with every move captivating the hearts of millions. While Android rivals have showcased their foldable screen phones, Apple has remained enigmatic, piquing everyone's curiosity. Industry rumors, however, have never ceased. News of Apple secretly developing a 'Foldable iPhone' resembles a gripping TV series, with new twists and turns emerging periodically.

Recently, this 'series' seems to have reached its climax, with numerous leaks about the Foldable iPhone sprouting up. From design sketches to supply chain whispers and analyst predictions, a clearer picture is emerging. So, what does this legendary Apple 'secret weapon' entail? What groundbreaking technologies does it bring? Can it once again revolutionize the world? Today, let's 'unveil' it and provide a comprehensive glimpse into this Foldable iPhone that has whetted the appetite of Apple enthusiasts worldwide.

'Book' or 'Compact'? Here's a glimpse of what the Foldable iPhone might look like!

First and foremost, everyone's primary concern is undoubtedly the folding mechanism the Foldable iPhone will adopt. Currently, foldable screen phones come in two main forms: the 'book-style', which opens and closes like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold, revealing a tablet-sized screen; and the 'compact' style, which flips open and closed like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip or Motorola Razr, being compact and portable. According to most recent leaks, Apple's inaugural Foldable iPhone is inclined towards a **'book-style' horizontal folding design**.

Imagine, when closed, it might resemble a 'regular' iPhone with an external screen size of approximately 5.5 to 5.7 inches, perfect for one-handed use and daily tasks. Upon unfolding, it transforms into a 'mini iPad' with a large internal screen nearing 8 inches (e.g., 7.8 inches). This design balances portability with an immersive tablet-like large-screen experience, ideal for video watching, gaming, document handling, and multitasking. It's said that this large internal screen might have a 4:3 aspect ratio, akin to traditional iPads, making it ideal for reading and content display.

Regarding body thickness, leaks suggest that the folded thickness might be around 9 to 9.5 millimeters, while the unfolded thickness could be as slim as 4.5 to 4.8 millimeters, aiming for extreme thinness and lightness. To achieve this, Apple might make certain compromises. For instance, rumors indicate that the familiar Face ID might be replaced by Touch ID fingerprint recognition integrated into the side button, conserving valuable internal space. High-end titanium alloy is likely to be the material of choice for ensuring strength and lightness.

Screen and Hinge: Where Lies Apple's 'Black Technology'?

For foldable screen phones, screen quality and hinge durability are two significant technical challenges, and users' primary concerns. Apple won't overlook these aspects.

On the screen front, rumors suggest that Apple will place a substantial order for foldable screens with its seasoned rival in flexible screens – Samsung Display. Apple is known for its stringent screen requirements, aiming to create a flexible internal screen with virtually 'no crease' for an unparalleled visual experience. Intriguingly, Apple applied for a patent related to screen 'self-repair' years ago. This futuristic technology employs special flexible materials and coatings to allow minor scratches or creases on the screen to 'heal' over time. If realized on the Foldable iPhone, it would undoubtedly be revolutionary.

The hinge, the 'backbone' of a foldable screen phone, is of paramount importance. Apple has invested heavily in R&D in this area. Leaks indicate that Apple has developed a high-strength hinge structure, potentially using 'liquid metal' – exceptionally strong and flexible – as the hinge's core material, or a hybrid of titanium alloy and stainless steel. In late 2024, Apple also announced a new hinge design patent, enhancing the flexibility and durability of foldable screen devices through a unique internal structure, aiming to resolve the creasing and fragility issues plaguing current foldable phones.

Performance, Battery Life, and Camera: Uncompromising Flagship Experience

As a top-tier iPhone, performance is a given. The powerful Apple A-series bionic chip will continue to drive its smooth operation and robust processing capabilities. To optimize battery life and manage heat, Apple might upgrade the display driver chip, adopting an advanced manufacturing process to enhance battery life without significantly increasing battery size. Battery capacity rumors suggest it might feature a 3D stacked battery with a capacity of around 5000mAh.

In terms of photography, the Foldable iPhone is expected to sport a rear dual-camera setup (main + ultra-wide-angle), with the internal screen possibly utilizing under-screen camera technology to maintain screen integrity, while the external screen might continue with the current iPhone's punch-hole design.

When Can We Buy It? Will the Price Be a Stumbling Block?

With so much said, the question on everyone's mind arises: When will this Foldable iPhone hit the market? And what will be its price?

According to current mainstream predictions, Apple's first Foldable iPhone is most likely to be released in the second half of 2026 or early 2027. Apple might adjust the release schedule of its existing iPhones to accommodate this, potentially alternating new product launches between autumn and spring. This means we might still have to wait patiently for one to two years.

Regarding the price, be prepared; it's likely to be quite 'eye-watering'. Multiple predictions peg the price range at $2000 to $2500, easily surpassing 10,000 yuan or even exceeding 16,000 yuan when converted to Chinese currency. This pricing undoubtedly positions it as one of Apple's most expensive phones ever, primarily targeting early adopters and high-end users seeking the ultimate technological experience, rather than mainstream consumers.

Apple Enters the Foldable Screen Market – Will It Change the Game?

Although Apple is a 'latecomer' to the foldable screen scene, this is characteristic of its approach. It often doesn't rush to be first but waits for the market and technology to mature, leveraging its strong brand appeal, exceptional design, and comprehensive ecosystem to achieve a 'late mover's advantage'.

Apple's entry into the market will undoubtedly boost the entire foldable screen phone industry. On one hand, it could further promote the popularization and mainstreaming of foldable screen phones with its influence; on the other hand, Apple's technological and design innovations might set new industry benchmarks, addressing some pain points of existing foldable screen phones. For consumers, the key concern is whether Apple can deliver surprises in system adaptability and ecological compatibility, seamlessly integrating the foldable screen experience into the iOS ecosystem.

Final Thoughts: Will You Invest in the Foldable iPhone?

Judging from the currently unveiled information, Apple's Foldable iPhone is undeniably a revolutionary product, integrating numerous cutting-edge technologies and brimming with anticipation. It strives to find the perfect balance between portability and large-screen experience, committed to resolving many existing technical challenges of foldable screen phones.

Of course, the high price might deter many. But for loyal Apple fans and tech enthusiasts, this milestone product might be worth the wait and investment.

So, after learning these 'secrets' about the Foldable iPhone, what do you think? Do you believe it can revolutionize the world again? If it's released in 2026 or 2027, will you consider purchasing it? Share your thoughts in the comments section!

(The content of this article is based on currently available online information and industry analysis. Specific product features and release details are subject to Apple's official announcements.)