Apple's iPhone Fold Nears Production: Insider Reveals Price Tag of Two iPhone 17 Pro Maxes

Apple's Foldable Dream Nears Reality: iPhone Fold in Pre-Production, Price Tag Sparks Sticker Shock

The long-rumored Apple iPhone Fold is reportedly moving at lightning speed, leaving even the most optimistic tech enthusiasts astonished. According to insights from United Daily News, Apple appears to have cracked a code that has stumped other foldable manufacturers: achieving a large internal display with virtually no discernible crease. This persistent flaw has been a thorn in the side of Samsung, Google, and countless other brands experimenting with foldable technology for years. Now, however, leaks suggest Apple has engineered a breakthrough.

Sources indicate that the device has successfully navigated experimental phases and is now firmly entrenched in engineering testing and pre-production. Foxconn has already established a dedicated assembly line for the iPhone Fold, a clear signal of its impending launch. Key suppliers like Largan Precision, Shin Zu Shing, and Chi Hong are reportedly gearing up to receive orders, signaling a significant ramp-up in manufacturing readiness.

The Magic of a Crease-Free Display

While the vibrant internal flexible screen is rumored to be a Samsung endeavor, the true innovation lies in the intricate hinge mechanism. Apple has reportedly collaborated closely with Shin Zu Shing and Amphenol on this critical component. This sophisticated system is designed to tautly draw the display panel when the device is folded, thereby eliminating the unsightly and tactile crease that plagues current foldables. Further adding to the high-tech allure, Apple is exploring the use of liquid metal for hinge components. This advanced material boasts exceptional durability and resilience, a crucial characteristic for a device designed to withstand constant folding and unfolding. Despite initial cost hurdles, whispers suggest the average hinge price will settle in the $70-$80 range, a testament to Apple's relentless pursuit of cost optimization without sacrificing quality.

A Glimpse into the Future: Pricing and Launch Window

While the exact timeline for full-scale production remains under wraps, industry watchers anticipate the iPhone Fold's grand debut alongside the iPhone 18 series, which is slated for a 2026 release and is expected to exclusively feature Pro models. Analyst Arthur Liao of Fubon Research paints a picture of the iPhone Fold as one of Apple's most premium offerings to date. His projections place the device's retail price at a staggering $2499, effectively doubling the cost of a hypothetical iPhone 17 Pro Max. For context, the current Samsung Galaxy Fold 7 retails for $1999, highlighting the significant premium Apple might be commanding. Despite the hefty price tag, Liao remains optimistic about demand, forecasting 5.4 million units sold in the first year and a substantial 15.4 million over its entire lifecycle. This optimism is noteworthy, given his broader prediction of a 4% dip in global smartphone shipments in 2026, coupled with a projected 5-6% increase in component costs.

Unveiling the iPhone Fold's Potential Specs

Based on circulating leaks, the iPhone Fold is shaping up to be a powerhouse device, boasting impressive specifications: a book-style foldable form factor, a substantial 7.74-inch Super Retina XDR internal display, complemented by a 5.49-inch external screen. The internal display is expected to feature a sharp resolution of 2713x1920 pixels with a 4:3 aspect ratio, offering an expansive viewing experience. In a surprising move, the device may opt for Touch ID integrated into the power button, eschewing Face ID for its foldable iteration. Of course, the absence of a visible crease remains a paramount feature. Under the hood, expect the cutting-edge A20 Pro chip, 12GB of RAM, and a C2 5G modem. Camera enthusiasts can look forward to a primary camera capable of capturing stunning detail up to 48MP, with a 24MP front-facing camera. Powering this technological marvel will be a robust 5400-5800 mAh battery. The official unveiling of the iPhone Fold is anticipated in the latter half of 2026. It's also worth noting that Apple is reportedly exploring an iPhone Flip model as well, indicating a broader strategic expansion into the foldable market.

If Apple successfully delivers on its promise of a truly crease-free foldable experience, the iPhone Fold won't just be another entrant into the market; it could very well redefine the standard for foldable smartphones, setting a new benchmark for the entire category.