The Future of Foldable iPhones: Expected Features, Screen Dimensions, and Processor Upgrades

The smartphone market is on the brink of a major shift with foldable devices gaining traction. Apple fans and tech enthusiasts alike are eager to know when a foldable iPhone might arrive, how its screen dimensions will change, and what new features it will bring. Another hot topic is whether the A-series processors will evolve to match the performance of Apple’s powerful M5 chips. This post explores these questions, offering a detailed look at what to expect from the next generation of foldable iPhones.

When Can We Expect a Foldable iPhone?

Rumors about Apple developing a foldable iPhone have circulated for years. Industry insiders suggest that Apple is actively working on foldable screen technology, but the company is known for taking its time to perfect new products before launch. Analysts predict the first foldable iPhone could arrive between late 2026 and 2027.

Apple’s cautious approach means the foldable iPhone will likely debut only after extensive testing to ensure durability and user experience meet the brand’s high standards. Unlike some competitors who rushed foldable models to market, Apple aims to deliver a device that feels premium and reliable.

How Will the Screen Dimensions Change?

Foldable phones offer a unique advantage: they combine the portability of a smartphone with the larger display of a tablet. For Apple, this means the foldable iPhone will likely feature two distinct screen sizes:

• Closed mode: A compact, phone-sized display for quick tasks like calls, messages, and notifications.

• Open mode: A larger, tablet-like screen for browsing, gaming, and multitasking.

  
  

Current leaks suggest the closed screen might measure around 6.1 inches, similar to the iPhone 16 Pro, while the unfolded screen could expand to approximately 7.5 to 8 inches. This size would provide a significant boost in screen real estate without making the device too bulky.

Apple may also use an ultra-thin glass or flexible OLED panel to maintain clarity and touch sensitivity. The hinge mechanism will be crucial, designed to fold smoothly without creating a noticeable crease or compromising screen durability.

Additional Features Expected in the Foldable iPhone

Beyond the foldable screen, Apple is likely to introduce several new features to enhance the user experience:

• Design: Book-style with a large internal display (around 7.8 inches) and a smaller cover screen.

• Materials: Use of liquid metal for the hinge and improved titanium alloys for a lighter, stronger body.

• Display: Focus on eliminating the screen crease, a common issue in current foldables, by leveraging new materials and hinge designs.

• Performance: Expected to feature a powerful chip, possibly an A20 Pro.

• Camera: May feature a single selfie camera embedded in the top-left corner.

• Launch: Anticipated for late 2026, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, with some analysts predicting initial supply constraints pushing smooth shipments into 2027.

• Improved multitasking: The larger screen will support split-view and multiple app windows, allowing users to work on several tasks simultaneously.

• Enhanced camera system: Apple may integrate new camera modules optimized for the foldable design, possibly including under-display cameras to maximize screen space.

• Advanced software adaptations: iOS will need updates to handle foldable displays, with apps automatically adjusting layouts when the device is folded or unfolded.

• Battery innovations: Foldable phones require efficient battery management to power larger screens without sacrificing battery life. Apple might use dual batteries or new battery technology to address this.

• Durability features: Reinforced hinges, water resistance, and scratch-proof coatings will be essential to ensure the foldable iPhone withstands daily use.

  
  

Will the A-Series Processors Match M5 Performance?

Apple’s A-series chips have powered iPhones for years, delivering excellent performance and energy efficiency. Meanwhile, the M-series processors, designed for Macs and iPads, offer even higher performance levels, especially in multitasking and graphics.

There is speculation that future A-series chips, possibly named A20 Pro, could close the gap with M5 processors. This would mean:

• Apple A20 Pro Chip (Rumored)

  • Expected Release: In the iPhone 18 Pro models (around 2026).

  • Technology: First Apple chip on a 2nm process, promising major efficiency and performance leaps.

  • Packaging: May switch to new packaging integrating CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine processors in SoC. 

  • Faster CPU and GPU speeds: Enabling smoother gaming, video editing, and augmented reality experiences.

  • Better power efficiency: Extending battery life even with the demands of a foldable screen.

  • Improved AI and machine learning: Enhancing features like voice recognition, photography, and real-time translation.

  
  

However, the M5 chip is built for devices with more space and cooling capacity, so the A-series chips will likely remain optimized for mobile use. Still, Apple’s continuous chip advancements suggest the foldable iPhone will have a processor powerful enough to handle complex tasks without lag.

What Challenges Does Apple Face with Foldable iPhones?

Developing a foldable iPhone is not without challenges. Apple must solve several technical and design issues:

• Screen durability: Foldable screens are prone to creases and damage. Apple needs to ensure the screen remains smooth and responsive after thousands of folds.

• Hinge design: The hinge must be sturdy but slim, allowing the phone to fold flat without gaps or wobbling.

• Software optimization: iOS apps must seamlessly adapt to changing screen sizes and orientations.

• Battery life: Larger screens consume more power, so Apple must balance performance with battery efficiency.

• Price point: Foldable technology is expensive. Apple will need to price the device competitively while maintaining its premium brand image.

  
  

How Will the Foldable iPhone Impact the Market?

The introduction of a foldable iPhone could reshape the smartphone market. Apple’s entry would likely push other manufacturers to improve their foldable designs, accelerating innovation.

For users, a foldable iPhone offers:

• Greater versatility: Switching between phone and tablet modes without carrying multiple devices.

• Enhanced productivity: More screen space for work and entertainment.

• Future-proof technology: Access to the latest hardware and software innovations.

  
  

Apple’s reputation for quality and user experience could make foldable phones mainstream, moving them beyond niche early adopters.

What to Watch for Next

Keep an eye on Apple’s announcements and supply chain leaks in the coming months. Key indicators of a foldable iPhone launch include:

• Patents related to foldable screen technology.

• Partnerships with flexible display manufacturers.

• Software updates hinting at foldable screen support.

• Rumors about new A-series chip capabilities.

  
  

These clues will help confirm when Apple plans to unveil its foldable device and what features it will include.

The foldable iPhone promises to blend innovation with Apple’s signature design and performance. While the exact release date remains uncertain, the expected improvements in screen size, multitasking, and processing power suggest a device that could redefine mobile computing.