This year, we can expect a completely new iPhone model — the iPhone Fold. Apple’s foldable smartphone has been anticipated for quite some time, and it’s in 2026 that it will join the company’s smartphone lineup. Because of this, Apple is even postponing the release of iPhone 18. However, new rumors suggest that the first foldable iPhone might be slightly delayed compared to other devices. Let’s break down what’s known about the timeline, what to expect from the iPhone 18 lineup, and who should be keeping an eye on the iPhone Fold.
The iPhone Fold already looks interesting at the rumor stage. Image: 9to5mac.com
iPhone Fold Release Date
Most sources agree that iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Fold will be unveiled in September 2026 at Apple’s traditional keynote event. However, Barclays analyst Tim Long believes the foldable iPhone may not go on sale until December — two to three months after the main models.
This wouldn’t be unprecedented for Apple. In 2017, the iPhone X launched in November, while other models debuted in September. In 2018, the iPhone XR arrived in October, and the iPhone 14 Plus repeated this scenario in 2022. Each time, the other models went on sale on schedule in September.
It’s important to remember: for now, this is an analyst’s forecast, not confirmed information from Apple. A number of other sources, including insider Sonny Dickson, still expect iPhone Fold sales to begin in September — alongside the Pro models.
How iPhone Fold Differs from Regular iPhones
According to numerous leaks, iPhone Fold will feature a book-style form factor — like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold, not a clamshell. When folded, it will be a phone with a screen of about 5.3 inches, and when unfolded — a tablet with a screen of about 7.6–7.8 inches, close in size to the iPad mini.
Open it up and you get a mini-tablet. Convenient. Image: phonearena.com
Among the key features reported by leaks:
- A virtually invisible screen crease — Apple reportedly pursued this “at any cost”
- Touch ID in the power button instead of Face ID — like the iPad Air and iPad mini
- A new A20 Pro chip manufactured using 2-nanometer technology
- The ability to run two apps side by side on the unfolded screen
- Approximately 4.5 mm thickness when unfolded and 9–9.5 mm when folded
The design, based on leaks, has already been finalized: CAD files (3D blueprints of the device) appeared in March, and last week an important manufacturing milestone was reported.
iPhone Fold Price
The exact price has not been announced yet. However, most analysts and insiders agree on a range of $1,999 to $2,399 depending on storage capacity. The most recent leaks point to a base version with 256 GB for $1,999, a 512 GB model for $2,199, and a 1 TB version for $2,399.
Based on these figures, here are the approximate expected prices in Russia:
- 256 GB — approximately from 215,000 ₽
- 512 GB — approximately from 237,000 ₽
- 1 TB — approximately from 258,000 ₽
This is MacBook Pro-level pricing, not typical iPhone territory. For comparison, the iPhone 17 Pro Max with maximum storage costs $1,999 in the US — the same as the base iPhone Fold.
What’s New in iPhone 18 Pro
iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will launch in September 2026 and will be an evolution of the current iPhone 17 Pro. The design will remain largely familiar: 6.3- and 6.9-inch screens, the same “plateau” camera module style with three lenses.
Among the expected changes:
Would you pick a red iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max? Image: cnet.com
- A20 Pro chip on 2-nanometer process — faster and more efficient
- Variable aperture in the main camera — more control over depth of field, like DSLR cameras
- Smaller Dynamic Island (camera and sensor cutout)
- New proprietary Apple C2 modems and N2 connectivity chip
- A possible new red color option
Base prices, according to rumors, will remain the same: starting at $1,099 for iPhone 18 Pro and $1,199 for iPhone 18 Pro Max.
When Will iPhone 18 Launch
For the first time, Apple will split the iPhone lineup into two launches. In fall 2026, only the flagship and most expensive models will be released: iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Fold. The base iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and possibly iPhone Air 2 have been moved to spring 2027.
This means there won’t be affordable upgrade options in the fall. If you’re not ready to spend on a Pro or foldable iPhone, you’ll either have to wait six months or buy one of the current iPhone 17 models. Analysts explain this as Apple’s desire to focus attention on premium devices and avoid “diluting” the foldable iPhone premiere by launching budget models simultaneously.
Why You Should Buy the iPhone Fold
The device looks interesting, but the first generation won’t come without limitations. Image: the-geek.ru
iPhone Fold is a device for those who want to combine a phone and a mini-tablet in one body. The unfolded 7.6–7.8-inch screen will make it more convenient to work with documents, watch videos, and run two apps side by side. For those who currently carry both an iPhone and an iPad mini, this is a potentially interesting replacement. But there are several caveats:
- This is the first generation of the foldable iPhone — first versions of new Apple devices always have limitations that get addressed in subsequent generations
- No Face ID — for many, this is a step back in unlocking convenience
- Laptop-level pricing — you need to be sure the foldable format is truly what you need
- Possible sales delay until December — if the Barclays forecast is correct
If a regular large screen and good camera are enough for you, the iPhone 18 Pro Max remains a more reliable and predictable choice. And if you need an affordable iPhone — you’ll have to wait until spring 2027, when Apple releases the base iPhone 18 and the updated iPhone Air.
