Apple is hyping up their next year debut of two radical iPhone designs. These new designs maybe a result of a plethora of user complaints after iPhone 16 turned out to be nothing but a glorified iPhone 15.
2026 might bring a book-style foldable iPhones, a model which we have never seen from Apple and an ultra-thin port-free “Air” variant. Apple seeks to reignite flagging smartphone sales and mark its 20th anniversary with standout hardware alongside their software ecosystem.
Foldable iPhones: Book-Style Design and Displays
Apple’s first foldable iPhone is expected to feature a “notebook-style” form factor. If leaks are to be believed, a 5.7-inch external screen that folds out to a nearly 8-inch internal display. The company promises minimizing visible creases through advanced anti-wrinkle technology, something foldable phones have been notorious for for years. The chassis will reportedly combine titanium alloy and stainless steel to balance durability with lightweight elegance.
Launch Timeline and Pricing
Multiple industry analysts, including Jeff Pu and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, now pinpoint a 2026 launch window for the foldable device. Supply-chain reports indicate Foxconn has moved the project into its New Product Introduction phase, with mass production slated for late 2026.
Pricing is expected to start around $2,000 in the U.S. and could rise to $2,300 given its premium materials and novel form factor.
iPhone Air: Port-Free, Featherweight Profile
Alongside its foldable strategy, Apple is developing an “iPhone 17 Air,” a stripped-down flagship that may measure as little as 4.5 mm thick when unfolded. The Air will leverage advances in battery, modem and chipset efficiency to maintain acceptable runtimes despite its wafer-thin profile.
Under-Display Front Camera and Face ID
To maximize screen real estate, the Air is rumored to adopt under-display Face ID, removing any notch or punch-hole to create a seamless glass facade. Moreover, this under-display solution may debut in the iPhone 18 Pro line next year, laying the groundwork for the Air’s fully port-free, button-minimalist design.
Anniversary and Market Positioning
With 2026 marking the iPhone’s 20th anniversary, Apple appears keen to celebrate with bold hardware innovations. Launching both a foldable model and an ultra-thin variant will demonstrate the company’s engineering prowess. With almost a decade of no noticeable innovation, Apple hopes this move cements its lead against Android rivals that have only recently matured their foldable offerings.
What’s Next for Foldable iPhones
As Apple finalizes its staggered release plan, attention will turn to early hands-on impressions and potential supply constraints. Consumers and investors will have to wait and see if Apple’s dual-pronged hardware strategy can reignite growth and define the next era of smartphones.
