The long-awaited foldable iPhone may finally be on the horizon. Leaked 3D CAD renderings of the device suggest that Apple is making significant progress in developing its first foldable smartphone. The renderings, shared by longtime Apple leaker Sonny Dickson, depict a book-style foldable iPhone with a wider, more tablet-like aspect ratio when opened. This design is distinct from the tall, narrow shape of Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7, making Apple's folding phone a unique addition to the market.
The leaked design shows a squat, passport-size phone when folded up, resembling the original Google Pixel Fold. The back of the phone features a hybrid design, combining elements of the iPhone 17 Pro and the iPhone Air. It has a raised rectangular camera platform across the top, with two cameras, and the Apple logo centered in a flat, square frame that sits flush with the rest of the phone. The two outer corners appear rounded, while the hinge side looks more squared off. A hole-punch selfie camera is visible on the cover display, but details about the camera array inside the fold remain unclear.
Industry analysts are speculating about Apple's timeline for releasing the foldable iPhone. Barclays analyst Tim Long suggests that the device could be announced in September but not ship until December, citing supply chain constraints. However, this prediction should be taken with caution, as Long's track record of predicting Apple's moves is mixed.
The emergence of a foldable iPhone design is a significant development in the tech world. While it's uncertain whether the device will meet its rumored release date, the leak highlights Apple's continued innovation in smartphone design. The potential for a September announcement and a December release would be a departure from Apple's typical release pattern, but it's not unprecedented. The company's ability to adapt and innovate will be put to the test as it navigates the development and release of its first foldable iPhone.
