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Apple allegedly adjusts release schedule for foldable iPhone 18 debut

Rumor suggests potential shift in iPhone 18 launch timeline to accommodate foldable device.

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3 min read
Apple could potentially shift the launch timeline for the iPhone 18 to align with the alleged...
Apple could potentially shift the launch timeline for the iPhone 18 to align with the alleged introduction of a foldable model, as suggested by a recent report.

Apple allegedly adjusts release schedule for foldable iPhone 18 debut

Jumping Ship: Apple's Rough Seas and New Direction

Apple, once a sailing ship cruising smoothly, now finds itself battling fierce ocean currents. After President Donald Trump's tariffs, the company suffered significant financial losses exceeding hundreds of billions of dollars. In response, Apple has been contemplating a sea change, with plans to increase iPhone manufacturing in India instead of China.

Apple is also navigating uncharted waters with new technologies. The turbulent journey of Apple Intelligence has yet to bear fruit, and the much-anticipated overhaul of Siri remains an elusive horizon. The company is also rumored to be readying its maiden voyage into foldable devices, with the first foldable iPhone set to launch in 2026.

According to reports from The Information, Apple plans to modify its launch strategy starting next year. Instead of the traditional fall and spring releases for flagship and budget iPhones respectively, the company is considering a staggered approach. This change would see the introduction of the iPhone 18 lineup, inclusive of the foldable device, in the fall of 2026. A year later, in 2027, the standard iPhone 18 and the next budget model would be unveiled in the spring.

The objective behind this shift in strategy is to streamline production, allowing plants in India to manage the production of spring-released devices more effectively, as these would be based on older designs. At the time of writing, Apple has yet to confirm this reported shift in scheduling.

Folding Sails Ahead: What We Know So Far

The rumored foldable iPhone is set to make waves in 2026. However, there's much speculation surrounding its nature: Will it be an iPhone, an iPad, or perhaps something entirely new?

Currently, there are two types of foldable devices—those that fold like flip phones and those that expand to provide a larger screen, such as the Samsung Galaxy Fold. There have been whispers of two devices of varying sizes: one akin to an iPhone, and the other closer to an iPad. There are even suggestions of a third, even larger device boasting a display of 18 inches, which could function as a foldable MacBook.

As we venture into uncharted waters, it's clear that Apple's foldable device, when it arrives, won't come cheap.

Enrichment Data:

The Unfolded Story: Details and Specifications of Apple's Rumored First Foldable iPhone

Size and Display

  • Outer Screen: The device is expected to sport a 5.49-inch or 5.5-inch outer screen, allowing it to function like a standard smartphone.
  • Inner Screen: When unfolded, it features a larger 7.74-inch to 7.8-inch internal screen, similar in size to the iPad mini.
  • Resolutions: The outer screen offers a resolution of 2088 x 1422 pixels, while the inner screen is expected to be 2713 x 1920 pixels.
  • Aspect Ratios: The outer screen offers a 14.6:10 aspect ratio, and the inner screen a 14.1:10 aspect ratio.

Camera and Technology

  • Camera System: The device is rumored to have a dual rear camera setup, possibly with two 48 MP sensors for the main and ultra-wide cameras.
  • Front Camera: The inner screen features an under-display camera, while the outer screen uses a visible punch hole camera.
  • Biometric Security: The device might incorporate a side-mounted Touch ID fingerprint sensor but reportedly does not include Face ID.

Design and Hinge

  • Hinge Mechanism: Apple is said to be developing a hinge made from stainless steel and titanium alloy to minimize screen creases.
  • Body Material: The device may have a titanium casing for added durability and premium feel.

Battery and Additional Features

  • Battery: Early rumors suggested a 5000mAh "3D Stacked" battery cell system, but this is yet to be confirmed.
  • Other Features: The iPhone Fold is expected to offer a premium user experience with advanced display technology and robust build quality.

Potential Launch Date

  • Release Date: The first foldable iPhone is currently expected to debut in late 2026 or early 2027. However, rumors and leaks suggest that these specifications and timelines may change as Apple continues to refine the device.
  1. Apple, in its new direction, is reportedly planning to venture into the realm of foldable devices, with the first foldable iPhone set to launch in 2026.
  2. The rumored foldable iPhone is expected to have a dual rear camera setup, with two 48 MP sensors for the main and ultra-wide cameras, and an under-display camera on the internal screen.
  3. In terms of design, Apple is said to be developing a hinge made from a combination of stainless steel and titanium alloy, and the device may have a titanium casing for added durability.
  4. The device is anticipated to offer an 18-inch display, which could potentially function as a foldable MacBook, though this is yet to be confirmed. The technology behind this foldable device is expected to come with advanced display technology and robust build quality, but it won't come cheap when it arrives.

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