apple is preparing to enter the foldable smartphone market with the “iPhone Fold,” anticipated to debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max this September, according to new reports from industry analyst Jeff pu. The launch represents a notable move for the tech giant, potentially reshaping the premium smartphone landscape and challenging established players in the foldable category. Both the new foldable and Pro models are expected to feature Apple’s next-generation A20 Pro chip, promising ample performance and efficiency gains.
Apple is poised to unveil its first foldable iPhone, dubbed the “iPhone Fold,” alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in September, according to a new report from industry analyst Jeff Pu. The launch would mark a significant expansion of Apple’s iPhone lineup and a foray into a growing segment of the smartphone market.
Next-Generation A20 Pro Chipset Promises Performance Gains
Both the iPhone Fold and the iPhone 18 Pro/Pro Max models are expected to be powered by the A20 Pro chipset, manufactured by TSMC using a cutting-edge 2-nanometer (N2) process. This represents a substantial leap forward in mobile processing technology, promising a 15% increase in CPU performance and a 30% improvement in power efficiency compared to the A19 chip.
The new chipset will also utilize an advanced Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module packaging technique, embedding RAM directly onto the same wafer as the CPU and GPU – a departure from previous designs where these components were positioned side-by-side. This integration is designed to accelerate data transfer speeds, extend battery life, and optimize internal space. An upgraded power delivery system, featuring new capacitor technology, will further enhance stability and support demanding processing tasks.
iPhone Fold Specifications
Apple’s first foldable phone is anticipated to feature a “book-style” design, similar to a folding book. Key specifications include:
- Display: A 7.8-inch internal display and a compact 5.5-inch external display, both designed to be virtually crease-free.
- Thickness: An ultra-slim profile of just 4.5mm when unfolded, and 9-9.5mm when folded.
- Features: Integration of Touch ID and front-facing cameras for use in both folded and unfolded configurations.
Shared Specifications Across Models
The Pro and Fold models are expected to share several core specifications, including 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM, a 48-megapixel rear camera system, and the Apple C2 modem – a 5G chip developed in-house by Apple.
However, consumers hoping for a more affordable foldable option may face a wait. Pu suggests Apple may adopt a phased release strategy:
- September: Launch of premium models (iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Fold).
- Spring 2027: Introduction of the standard iPhone 18 and a budget-friendly iPhone 18e.
If these reports prove accurate, the new iPhones will offer a more compact powerhouse compared to some Android competitors. However, potential buyers may need to exercise patience depending on their desired model.
