Apple Preparing 'Most Significant Overhaul in the iPhone's History'

[MacRumors]

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has high expectations for Apple's first foldable iPhone.

In his Power On newsletter today, he said the foldable iPhone will be "the most significant overhaul in the iPhone's history."

"iPhone 4, iPhone 6 and iPhone X were clearly a big deal, but this is a whole new design," he said.

Like Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7, the foldable iPhone will reportedly open up like a book, providing users with a large inner screen for watching videos, playing games, and multitasking. iOS 27 is expected to be optimized for the foldable iPhone, allowing for apps to be open side-by-side and for other iPad-like multitasking functionality.

A few months ago, a report said the foldable iPhone will be equipped with a 7.7-inch inner display, and a 5.3-inch outer display. It was initially rumored that the device would have a virtually "crease-free" inner display, but it was later reported that Apple is using technology that "reduces the crease without eliminating it entirely."

Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo expects the foldable iPhone to have two rear cameras, one front camera, and a Touch ID power button instead of Face ID.

Apple will likely unveil the foldable iPhone in September this year, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. However, according to analyst Tim Long and Gurman, the foldable iPhone might ship later than the Pro models.

In the U.S., it has been estimated that the foldable iPhone may start at or above $1,999.

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Article Link: Apple Preparing 'Most Significant Overhaul in the iPhone's History'

 

[EugW]

So pumped for this form factor.

It seems a friend of mine will pay anything to get this form factor, whereas for myself, I'm not interested in it at all. This form factor appears to be very divisive.

 

[tonmischa]

While it might be very innovative, we'll have to wait and see if people are willing to pay $2,000 or more. Especially in the current economic climate.

I am tempted because of the small size (when folded), but the price is simply too high for me.

 

[Line_Noise]

Nothing I want less than a hinge in a touch screen.

 

[madmin]

Apple historical analyst @madmin in his latest power-cycle newsletter suggests waiting for the second generation foldable in 2028 to avoid disappointment...

 

[WarmWinterHat]

Interested in a flip, but not a fold. I just don't need or want that much screen space on my phone, nor do I want to spend what they are going to (over)charge for it.

Curious how they make it work, however...others can spend their money and report back!

 

[Billy_Bob]

We're coming awfully close to the point at which you might as well just use your cellular-connected iPad mini as a smartphone -- and for a lot less money than this iPhone Ultra Max Pro Fold is going to cost. Or maybe it's about time for a cellular-connected Mac nano?

 

[nfl46]

This will definitely be my next iPhone! Soooo excited! I’ve been using Android foldables for years but iOS was always my preferred OS.

 

[bluecoast]

I misread the headline to say ‘iOS’ instead of ‘iPhone’ in the hope that they are going to reverse Liquid Glass.

Wishful thinking obviously.

 

[JohnRckr]

The phone is not even out yet, and we already know it will be overpriced for what it is, and as usual, years behind competition. What a deal.

I am really looking for comparisons videos between “iPhone Fold” and actual foldable flagship like the Find N6 from Oppo.

 

[CyclingHermit]

Like the opinions in this thread, I expect this will be quite divisive.

On my end, this could be a total flop and non-interesting, or, depending on the execution, a must buy. And yes, the flip is also interesting.

Looks like a lot of changes coming, yay!

 

[H.E. Pennypacker]

Day one buy. Watch, the preorders ship dates will slip within hours. Everyone saying it’s too expensive for the masses is grossly underestimating how many people have the disposable income to make this purchase, and even more who will justify it as a productivity tool. I’ve said it before…pirorties. I know people who spend $2k on Starbucks each year. This isn’t a niche product it’s a demand wave waiting to happen. See you back here when it blows past initial forecasts.

 

[vegetassj4]

"the most significant overhaul in the iPhone's history."

They must be about to release emoji pro™, magical new folding emoji that are light years ahead of the competition. Packed with more emotion than ever thought possible or even imagined. They designed from the ground up for Apple Intelligence, they will be the most pro emoji we've ever created. Not only do these emoji live on the fold, they break the mold. You are going to love it.

 

[The Game 161]

Can’t wait been waiting years for an iPhone foldable.

 

[WarmWinterHat]

Day one buy. Watch, the preorders ship dates will slip within hours. Everyone saying it’s too expensive for the masses is grossly underestimating how many people have the disposable income to make this purchase, and even more who will justify it as a productivity tool. I’ve said it before…pirorties. I know people who spend $2k on Starbucks each year. This isn’t a niche product it’s a demand wave waiting to happen. See you back here when it blows past initial forecasts.

I don't understand this mindset at all....I have a quite a bit of disposable income, but still don't spend it frivolously nor recklessly. Granted, I've never been the early-adopter type, but even if you want this, why not wait it out a few weeks/months and see how it works in the real world instead of "day one"?

It would kinda suck to read sometime mid January that a bunch of people have been "folding it wrong".

 

[miq]

While it might be very innovative, we'll have to wait and see if people are willing to pay $2,000 or more. Especially in the current economic climate.

I am tempted because of the small size (when folded), but the price is simply too high for me.

Innovative? lol you know Samsung have been doing this for many years, right?

 

[mjs916]

While it might be very innovative, we'll have to wait and see if people are willing to pay $2,000 or more. Especially in the current economic climate.

I am tempted because of the small size (when folded), but the price is simply too high for me.

What’s supposed to be innovative about it?

 

[HouseLannister]

Save the hyperbole for Federighi and Ternus, Gurman.

 

[Martyimac]

As a senior who doesn't "live" on his phone. I have no interest in a foldable. Folding or flip phones were great back in the Motorola Razr era 20 years ago. But since then haven't been interested in the form factor. I will not be buying this form factor for the foreseeable future.

 

[Artemiz]

If Gurman said it, it must be TRUE.

 

[datsdatcharlie]

If Gurman said it, it must be TRUE.

Gurman is the best apple guy out there

 

[Max_G]

Will wait for the iPhone Fold SE.

 

[jmh600cbr]

Just take my money already. Can’t wait another second for true multitasking on an iPhone.

 

[TechRunner]

I'm happy to sit on the sidelines and read MR member reviews of the device. It doesn't appeal to me, but I'm glad to see Apple testing this space.

However, as I've said before, a flip phone from Apple would have my full attention.

 

[CharlesShaw]

iOS 27 is expected to be optimized for the foldable iPhone, allowing for apps to be open side-by-side and for other iPad-like multitasking functionality.

IMO, the best iPad-like multitasking is when you get out your actual iPad while you're still using the iPhone for something like a phone call. Or when you're busy working on the 11" iPad and it's more convenient to pick up the iPhone to use the calculator rather than leave the iPad window you're in. Sometimes even switching to iPadOS multitasking is too much of a hassle so having the second screen on the nearby iPhone is great.