Rumors about Apple entering the foldable smartphone market have been circulating for years, and now fresh reports suggest that the company is preparing to take a major step forward. According to a recent report, the Cupertino-based tech giant is expected to commence mass production of its first foldable devices in the second half of 2026. Furthermore, Apple is reportedly gearing up to develop an early prototype as soon as April next year.

Currently, Samsung dominates the foldable smartphone segment with a 56 percent market share. However, Apple’s anticipated entry into this space could significantly reshape the industry. Previous reports have indicated that Apple is working on two foldable devices—a foldable iPhone and a foldable iPad Pro. The foldable iPhone is speculated to adopt a book-style design, featuring a 7.8-inch primary display along with a 5.5-inch cover screen. Meanwhile, the foldable iPad Pro is rumored to come with an 18.8-inch flexible display, offering a unique blend of portability and productivity.

According to MacRumors, analyst Jeff Pu has stated that these foldable devices have now entered the new product introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn, Apple’s key manufacturing partner. The NPI phase is a crucial step in smartphone production, encompassing design, engineering, prototyping, and the transition from concept to mass production. If reports are accurate, Apple is expected to have a working prototype of its foldable iPhone ready by April 2025, after which the company will fine-tune the design and hardware.

Apple’s approach to foldable technology is expected to be distinct from that of competitors like Samsung. The rumored foldable iPhone could feature a premium aluminum alloy middle frame, reinforcing durability and structural integrity. Additionally, it is expected to sport a dual rear camera setup, consisting of a main sensor and an ultra-wide-angle lens. Battery capacity is likely to be around 5,000mAh, which might fall short compared to some competitors but could still offer reliable battery life given Apple’s hardware and software optimizations.

Industry insiders speculate that Apple’s foldable devices could arrive in the global market by 2027, although the exact launch timeline remains uncertain. As the development progresses, further details about Apple’s foldable iPhone and iPad Pro are expected to emerge, shedding light on the company’s strategy in this highly competitive segment. With Apple’s history of refining emerging technologies, its entry into the foldable market could set new benchmarks for innovation and user experience.

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