Multinational tech company Apple Inc. is set to shake up the foldable market in 2026 with the launch of the iPhone fold.
Bloomberg’s senior Apple reporter, Mark Gurman, has provided early insights into Apple’s first foldable iPhone, describing a device designed to offer iPad-style multitasking and a premium form factor to drive strong consumer demand.
“Apple’s forthcoming foldable iPhone will include updates to the iOS operating system that enable iPad-like layouts and side-by-side apps for the first time, enhancing the device’s appeal for multitasking,” he said.
Mark Gurman expects the foldable iPhone to debut in late 2026, featuring a book-style design with a large inner display roughly the size of an iPad mini, allowing users to run apps side by side on a nearly crease-free screen.
He predicts the device will carry a high price point above Ksh259,200, positioning it as an “Ultra” model to encourage upgrades, even though foldable phones currently make up only 1.5% of the smartphone market.
According to Gurman, while production challenges may slightly delay its availability compared to other iPhone 18 models, the foldable iPhone has strong potential to succeed and reshape Apple’s presence in the premium smartphone segment.
Apple’s Foldable iPhone Key Specs
- First foldable iPhone will likely have a book-style design
- 7.8-inch internal screen and a 5.5-inch external display
- Dual rear camera setup
- 12 GB of RAM, up to 1 TB of storage
- 5,000–5,500 mAh battery
- iOS 27, optimized for foldables
- Apple may not have been able to eliminate the crease as it initially wanted, but it should be minimal
- Only UTG glass to be used for less visible hinge
- iOS may be redesigned for a foldable experience, it may not run iPadOS
- Touch ID for authentication, no Face ID
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Expected Release Timeline and Prices
The first foldable iPhone is expected to launch in late 2026, potentially alongside the iPhone 18 Pro Max and Pro in a fall release, possibly in September.
Recent reports indicate a slight delay, with availability now expected around December 2026.
Pricing for the foldable iPhone is projected to start at $1,999, equivalent to approximately Ksh 259,130.
Earlier estimates suggested a higher starting price of around $2,399, which would translate to roughly Ksh 311,435.
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Other Brands With Latest Foldables and Prices
According to PCMag, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 currently leads the foldable smartphone market. This book-style device features a slimmer design, a 200MP main camera, the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, and offers seven years of updates, priced at approximately Ksh 233,730 (around $1,800).
The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold focuses on AI-powered productivity. The 2026 model includes IP68 durability, the Tensor G5 processor, 3000-nit displays, and advanced AI camera tools, priced at about Ksh 233,600 (~$1,799).
For fans of the flip-style form factor, the Motorola Razr 60 Ultra offers a 4-inch cover screen, strong battery life, and premium performance, making it ideal for compact users. Its price is roughly Ksh 168,805 (~$1,300).
