Apple’s forthcoming foldable iPhone, anticipated for release next year, may be smaller than expected, with rumors suggesting a 5.3-inch outer display. This is even smaller than the discontinued iPhone mini’s 5.4-inch screen. The compact design choice may be influenced by the trade-off between the outer and inner displays of the foldable device. A smaller outer screen could mean a more functional, rectangular inner display, promoting multitasking similar to an iPad experience.
The foldable iPhone, when closed, is expected to resemble a smaller phone compared to other foldables like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Google Pixel Pro Fold, which have larger front displays. Apple’s strategy may focus on using the folded state for quick interactions, while the main experience unfolds to a larger screen.
Although the smaller outer display might limit certain activities, Apple’s design seems to prioritize the unfolded experience. The rumored dimensions suggest a focus on delivering a pocket-sized iPad experience, potentially justifying a premium price tag between $2,000 and $2,500. The foldable iPhone is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models in September 2026.
