Foldable iPhone & MacBook Development to Arrive in 2026

It is possible that Apple is considering an earlier release of a foldable MacBook and a foldable iPhone into their ecosystem than originally anticipated.

Despite being the sole major smartphone manufacturer that has yet to release a foldable device, Apple may join the market with a foldable iPhone by 2026. Additionally, rumors suggest that a 20.3-inch foldable MacBook could potentially be released as soon as 2025, contradicting previous reports.

According to an investor note from Haitong International Securities analyst Jeff Pu, a recent exclusive report by 9to5Mac suggests that Apple may be placing more emphasis on developing foldable devices due to an upswing in demand for related components within their supply chain.

According to him, these recently developed devices could potentially make up a new series of products and may come with a significant higher price point.

According to Pu, it is anticipated that the 20.3-inch MacBook with a foldable display will start being mass produced towards the end of 2025, implying a potential release date in late 2025 or early 2026. Similarly, the foldable iPhone is projected to enter mass production in late 2026, with a possible public launch in late 2026 or early 2027.

A concept image showing clamshell foldable iPhone

We are already familiar with Apple’s intentions to release foldable devices. According to renowned Apple analyst Mig-Chi Kuo, there are speculations about a 20.3-inch foldable MacBook that is scheduled to be launched in 2027. It is also anticipated that a foldable iPhone or iPad could potentially start mass production in 2025 or 2026.

According to Ross Young of Display Chain Supply Consultants, it appears that Apple is currently developing a hybrid foldable computing device, which is expected to be released in 2026 or 2027.

Mark Gurman, a writer for Bloomberg, also reported on a potential foldable Apple device with a large screen. He described it as a combination of a MacBook and an iPad, featuring dual screens. In January of 2023, Apple submitted a patent application to the US Patent and Trademark Office for a specialized hinge for a foldable device with a clamshell design, further solidifying their plans for a large foldable device.

It is not yet certain, but there is a possibility that the foldable MacBook and iPhone will be released in 2026 or 2027. There are indications that something is being developed, but official announcements may not be made for some time.