The tech world is abuzz with anticipation as Apple, the iconic tech giant, sets its sights on foldable devices. According to Haitong International Securities analyst Jeff Pu, Apple is accelerating its foldable work, with increasing visibility of these devices in supply chain checks.
Foldable Devices on the Horizon
While Apple has been cautious about diving into the foldable smartphone market, it seems the company is ready to take the plunge. Rather than launching a foldable iPhone right away, Apple may test the waters with a different form factor, such as a folding iPad or a MacBook/iPad hybrid.
Pu’s investor note hints at a 20.3-inch foldable device arriving in late 2025, followed by an iPhone Fold or iPhone Flip in late 2026. The first foldable is expected to target the ultra-high-end market, aligning with Apple’s premium product strategy.
The Foldable iPhone:
The foldable iPhone is shrouded in mystery, but two screen sizes are under consideration: 7.9 inches and 8.3 inches. Apple aims to strike a balance between portability and usability.
Pu’s prediction places the foldable iPhone’s launch window in 2026, an incredibly aggressive timeline. If realized, it would be approximately seven years after Samsung’s Galaxy Fold made its debut in 2019.
Slimming Down the iPhone 17:
Say goodbye to the iPhone 17 Plus model. In 2026, Apple plans to replace it with the sleeker iPhone 17 Slim. This model will feature a 6.6-inch display, bridging the gap between the standard iPhone 17 (anticipated to have a 6.1-inch panel) and the current iPhone 15 Plus (with a 6.7-inch display).
Both the basic iPhone 17 models will house an A18 or A19 chipset, complemented by 8GB of RAM. The smaller iPhone 17 Pro (6.3-inch) will flaunt a more complex aluminum design.
Pro Models and Memory Boost:
The iPhone 17 Pro Max (6.9-inch) retains its titanium build. Thanks to cutting-edge “metalens” technology, the proximity sensor will occupy less space, potentially shrinking the Face ID footprint.
Surprisingly, Pu predicts that both iPhone 17 Pro models will boast 12GB of RAM, a significant leap from the current 8GB. This suggests Apple’s ambitious on-device AI plans require robust internals.
Sharper Selfies:
All four iPhone 17 models will receive a long-awaited boost in their front-facing selfie cameras. The megapixel count is set to double from 12 to 24, enhancing your photography experience.
