Skip to main content

Digital Trends may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site. Why trust us?

Apple’s rumored foldable iPhone is still several years away

While Samsung is already on its third generation of foldables and Chinese manufacturers are jumping on the foldable bandwagon, Apple seems to still be years away from launching a foldable iPhone. The product was earlier tipped to go official sometime in 2023. However, the latest report claims that a 2024 launch timeline is more likely.

According to a report from analyst Ross Young of Display Supply Chain, the foldable iPhone is not expected “until 2023 at the earliest.” It goes on to say that a 2024 launch is more likely, meaning that the product is still at least two years away, likely even longer in light of product release timeline and supply chain issues. This is despite foldable technology having improved immensely in the past couple of years, as seen in our review of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3.

Apple is also rumored to be working with Samsung and LG Display on the foldable panel for its future product. According to past leaks, the foldable iPhone could feature an 8-inch flexible OLED display, not too different from what Samsung has to offer. Bloomberg reported earlier that Apple had already started working on this new device, but more recent indications are that the work is limited to display only.

When Samsung launched its first-generation Galaxy Fold, it was ridden with issues – the screen was prone to breaking and debris could easily get stuck inside the hinge, causing damage. That’s not to mention the screen crease. But within two years, Samsung was able to figure out ways to improve the Fold’s durability and with the arrival of the Z Fold 3, we felt safe recommending the device to the average consumer. So, expectations are high for Apple, since it is known for taking years to perfect tech before release.

Meanwhile, competition is starting to increase as Chinese manufacturers like Oppo and Vivo are said to be launching their first foldable for consumers in 2022. In fact, Oppo has already announced its foldable — the Find N — and we’re expecting to find out more about it tomorrow. Somehow, we don’t think Apple is too worried.

Editors' Recommendations

Prakhar Khanna
Prakhar writes news, reviews and features for Digital Trends. He is an independent tech journalist who has been a part of the…
I said I wouldn’t do this to my iPhone, but did it anyway
A person holding an iPhone 15 Pro Max with a Casetify x Le Sserafim case.

When I first got my iPhone 15 Pro Max, I said I wasn’t going to use a case, as I wanted to experience the wonderful in-hand feel of the titanium chassis and its newly refined shape. I’ve stuck to this for almost five months, with the help of a cool pouch, but something happened that has seen me go back on my word.

No, there wasn’t an expensive accident; it was something else. Accessory maker Casetify teamed up with K-pop group Le Sserafim for an exclusive line of phone cases and accessories, and I simply couldn’t resist. I broke my promise, and am so glad I did.
Casetify x Le Sserafim

Read more
Want to own a piece of iPhone history? You just got a new chance
Original iPhone in sealed box

Are you a fan of the original iPhone? A rare unsealed 2007 model is up for auction, and it could be yours. Just be warned that it will likely come with a very hefty price tag.

LCG Auction is currently holding an auction for an original iPhone, with the bidding starting at $10,000. This iPhone is an original 4GB model, which makes it significant. When Apple launched the iPhone, it only sold a limited number of 4GB models, with the 8GB model being much more popular and widely available.

Read more
I’m worried about Apple’s new iPads
The back of the iPad Air 5.

Apple typically releases a new version of its products every year, but 2023 was different. That was the first year Apple did not release any new updates across the entire iPad lineup.

We’re now a couple of months into 2024, and it’s rumored that Apple could be dropping new iPad models this month — as early as this coming Monday or Tuesday. After all, a new M3 MacBook Air just came out, so naturally, we should expect new iPads after not having any update last year.

Read more