Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone is taking shape with new details pointing to a device focused on multitasking and large-screen usability. According to a report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the upcoming foldable will feature an iPad-style interface, a redesigned authentication system, and a premium price expected to reach around $2,000.
The device signals Apple’s cautious but strategic entry into the foldable smartphone market, emphasizing software optimization and ecosystem control over experimental hardware features.
A Wider Display Built for Multitasking
iPad-Inspired Layout
The foldable iPhone is expected to introduce an interface similar to that of the iPad, allowing users to view apps side-by-side. This layout aims to improve multitasking by taking advantage of the larger internal display.
However, the device will reportedly not run native iPad apps. Instead, Apple is said to be updating its core applications with a left-side sidebar layout, maximizing screen real estate while maintaining compatibility with iPhone software architecture. Developers will also be given tools to make iPhone apps more “iPad-like” in design and functionality.
Display Dimensions and Design Direction
The outer display is rumored to be roughly the size of a smaller iPhone, offering a familiar single-screen experience when folded. Internally, the device is expected to feature a wider aspect ratio, similar to Google’s first-generation Pixel Fold rather than more recent foldable flagships like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 or Pixel Fold 10.
Previous reports suggest the device could resemble “two iPhone Airs stuck together,” indicating a slim, symmetrical design approach.
Touch ID Returns, Face ID Exits
Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor
In a notable shift, Apple may abandon Face ID for this model. Due to the thin front panel, the device reportedly cannot accommodate the full Face ID sensor array. Instead, Touch ID could be integrated into the side button.
This change would mark a partial return to fingerprint authentication in Apple’s premium lineup, a method still present in select iPads and older iPhone models.
Hole-Punch Camera and Dynamic Island
Replacing the pill-shaped notch, the foldable iPhone is expected to include a small hole-punch front-facing camera. Despite this design change, Apple will reportedly retain the Dynamic Island feature, allowing users to monitor real-time activities such as calls, navigation, and media playback.
Premium Hardware, Premium Pricing
The foldable iPhone is rumored to feature a dual rear-camera system and carry a price tag of approximately $2,000. This would position it at the higher end of the foldable market, competing directly with flagship foldables from Samsung and Google.
By focusing on refined software integration rather than radical hardware experimentation, Apple appears to be prioritizing stability and ecosystem continuity over early-adopter novelty.
Editor's Comments
Apple’s foldable strategy reflects its broader product philosophy: enter emerging categories later, but with a more polished software experience. While competitors have iterated through multiple generations of foldables, Apple appears focused on optimizing multitasking and app scalability before launch.
The decision to exclude native iPad app support suggests Apple is maintaining a clear distinction between product lines, possibly to protect iPad sales. The return of Touch ID also signals pragmatic engineering choices over brand continuity with Face ID.
If pricing remains near $2,000, adoption may initially be limited to enthusiasts and professionals. However, strong developer support and ecosystem integration could determine whether Apple’s first foldable becomes a niche luxury device or a long-term category leader.
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