Apple Foldable iPhone Leak Suggests Sub-0.15mm Display Crease and September 2026 Launch

Mumbai, February 26: Apple is reportedly making significant technical breakthroughs with its long-anticipated foldable iPhone, focusing on eliminating the prominent display crease that has affected competitors. Recent leaks from industry sources indicate that the tech giant has achieved a crease depth of under 0.15 mm, potentially setting a new benchmark for durability and aesthetics in the foldable smartphone market.

The device, often referred to in enthusiast circles as the "iPhone Fold," is expected to feature a fold angle of less than 2.5 degrees. To put these dimensions into perspective, a human hair typically measures between 0.05 mm and 0.1 mm, suggesting that Apple’s implementation would be remarkably subtle to both the eye and touch compared to current market offerings like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. Apple iPhone 17 Pro Price Drop: Here Is How To Grab the Latest Flagship Smartphone for Less.

Advanced Display and Hardware Integration

Samsung Display is reportedly the primary supplier for these specialized panels, utilizing advanced lamination techniques and new materials designed to distribute mechanical stress more evenly across the hinge. This engineering focus explains Apple's prolonged absence from the foldable category, as the company historically avoids entering new product segments until it can resolve common hardware limitations.

Beyond the screen technology, design details suggest a more minimalist approach to the external hardware. The rear camera module is expected to mirror the layout of the upcoming iPhone Air, featuring a dual-sensor system comprising a primary lens and an ultra-wide lens. This streamlined design aims to keep the device thin when folded, addressing another common criticism of existing foldable devices.

Strategic Launch and Feature Adjustments

In a notable shift for the brand, reports suggest that Touch ID could make a return, integrated directly into the power button. This move would likely replace Face ID on the internal display to maximize screen real estate and avoid the need for additional cutouts or notches on the flexible panel. This hardware configuration allows for a cleaner, uninterrupted viewing experience on the 1.5K resolution internal display.

Production orders for the necessary components are reportedly being finalized, pointing toward a potential launch window in September 2026. If these timelines remain accurate, the foldable iPhone would likely debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, positioning it as a premium alternative in Apple’s flagship lineup.

Market Context and Competition

Apple’s entry into the foldable space comes at a time when the global smartphone market is increasingly leaning toward versatile form factors. While Samsung and various Chinese manufacturers have established a lead in this segment, Apple’s strategy appears to rely on refined hardware that addresses "crease fatigue," a term used to describe user dissatisfaction with the visible line on folding screens. iPhone 16 Becomes Top-Selling Smartphone in India for 2025; Apple CEO Tim Cook Reports Record Quarterly Revenue and New Mumbai Store Plans.

As the industry moves toward 2027, the success of this device will likely depend on how well Apple integrates its iOS ecosystem with a foldable interface. Analysts suggest that if the crease is indeed as shallow as reported, it could provide the necessary incentive for long-term iPhone users to finally transition to the foldable format.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 26, 2026 02:55 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).