Apple is finally building a foldable iPhone. It opens up into a small tablet. It closes into a regular phone. I’ve seen this pitch before.
But Apple’s version sounds more practical than a gimmick. The foldable is rumored to have a 7-inch display, in a shape that’s closer to an iPad mini than an iPhone.
When it’s open, it’s a screen made for reading, FaceTiming, or writing long emails. When it’s closed, it fits in your pocket. That’s the idea: a phone that doubles as a tablet, without needing to carry both.
Apple hasn’t confirmed anything yet, but it’s preparing for production now. Reports indicate that the display is crease-free and thinner than any previous product the company has shipped.
The plan is to make a few million units for 2026. It won’t replace the iPhone 18. It’ll sit next to it, likely at the top of the lineup, and in the price range.
If it works as expected, the foldable iPhone could quietly replace a setup I often see: an iPhone in the pocket and an iPad mini in the bag. For many people, it could become the only device they need on a flight, in a meeting, or at a coffee shop.
As for price, don’t expect it to be cheap. Apple charged $3,500 for the Vision Pro. A device that combines an iPhone and iPad will likely start north of $2,000.
I’ve tested nearly every foldable out there. Most of them look interesting, but don’t hold up. The crease gets in the way, and the software feels unfinished.
Apple’s version won’t be immune to those problems, but the company tends to hold back until it can fix the basics.
If Apple nails the screen, hinge, and durability, it won’t be a “foldable.” It’ll just be the iPhone you want when your regular one feels too small, and your iPad feels like too much.
What would you use a foldable iPhone for? Could it replace both your phone and tablet? Share your thoughts below.
