Foldable iPhone Design Revealed in Images of Dummy Models

[MacRumors]

Leaker Sonny Dickson today shared images of the first iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and foldable iPhone dummy models.

The images conform with rumors about the designs of the three devices. iPhone dummy units are intended to take the place of real devices for testing purposes, particularly for accessory manufacturers, who seek to mass produce items such as cases prior to the announcement of new devices, which necessitates a relatively high level of accuracy.

While the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max look largely the same as their predecessors, other than a smaller Dynamic Island visible on the dummies, the foldable iPhone features a completely new design. With a passport-style form factor, it is unlike any iPhone we've seen before.

Previously, the best idea of what the first foldable iPhone could look like came from a 3D model based on a mockup created by MacRumors forums user iZac, who based his design on rumors that were circulating in May. While many aspects of that speculative design appear to be true, such as a horizontal dual-camera array and volume buttons on the top of the device, there are some key differences that we have not seen before.

Firstly, the foldable iPhone does not appear to have a unibody design like the iPhone 18 Pro models, with no window for a glass insert to facilitate wireless charging. With no separation between the rear and the camera plateau, this suggests that the device's entire rear may be made of glass like the iPhone Air. Secondly, the camera plateau does not extend the full width of the device like the iPhone Air, stopping around three quarters of the way along the back of the device.

The foldable iPhone is expected to feature a 7.8-inch inner display with an iPad-style 4:3 aspect ratio, a 5.5-inch outer display, an ultra-thin 4.5mm titanium frame, a class-leading display with a reduced crease, Touch ID, and a starting price of around $2,000. The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and first foldable iPhone are expected to launch in the fall, but the latest rumors suggest that the foldable could be delayed.

Article Link: Foldable iPhone Design Revealed in Images of Dummy Models

 

[Kylo83]

Way to short, should have been the same height as a pro phone and then opens to wider, it’s a downgrade to the normal pro models

 

[Spartan23]

Yeah, I'm just gonna go ahead and say it: fugly. 👎

 

[gigapocket1]

The aspect ratio and entire device design for the fold seems odd. Has to be a feature other than fold that is better

 

[Kylo83]

It’s more effort to open and turn to get bigger display, 18 pro max for me

 

[Kylo83]

Using a pro max wide to watch video doesn’t look much different than the fold open wide for wide screen video

 

[Lukomaldini]

Screen real estate doesn’t seem to be that much bigger than the pros? Maybe like 20% more?

Laid flat it looks like it has a similar thickness to the pros, so closed will be chunky! It could be the perspective though so I could be wrong…

 

[Kylo83]

I would actually get the fold if it was the same size as a pro max then opened it would double, or have it same height but slightly wider, I don’t want such a short phone

 

[Neonblue]

I can’t get past that rounded screen edge on the left hand side of the fold front.

 

[EclecticGent]

That plateau looks taller than the other two pro models. 😐

 

[BJMRamage]

I'll have to see this in person but everything I have seen thus far, and from competitors, doesn't appeal to me. I recall when Samsung had the wrap-around screen (maybe they still have it) but that didnt quite catch on.

 

[appleuser21]

The iPhone Air doesn't seem so bad now, does it?

 

[DFP1989]

Wow, if this is truly representative of the design, yuck and no thanks.

 

[WarmWinterHat]

That foldable looks pretty terrible to carry around.

 

[xmarcuswildx]

Well, I did want it. But that’s terrible. Apple has lost the plot.

 

[sunapple]

 

[Spinarelo]

Front screen is way too small for me. I’ll most likely use it closed most of the time when I’m on the go…. So definitely need a bigger screen like the Max that I’m used to.

 

[Takeo]

I actually love it. This passport style form factor makes a lot of sense.

 

[mblm85]

That must not be the design.

 

[janwerbinski]

I think it's much worse foldable design than competition. How is it possible to wait few years for this? I hope it's fake news.

 

[MayaUser]

unfortunately this isnt fake...the aspect ratio is bad, more closer to microsoft surface duo and away from the z fold

 

[Snørrbjørg]

Sharp corners? I dont think soo. When, folded it will make holes in your pocket.

 

[Koni17]

They are obviously going for a similar-to-iPad screen ratio when unfolded. I don't mind it to be honest.

 

[Jakesky123]

I actually love it. This passport style form factor makes a lot of sense.

Same! Granted I miss smaller phones. I would love this

 

[Ralfi]

The height, or lack of, in these photos surprised me. But I do like how the aspect ratio of the inner screen will have smaller black bars when watching videos.

Very curious device & I’m interested to see how it’s received by neutral reviewers (not fan bois / haters).