A couple of years back, Apple transitioned the stainless steel and glass finishes on the iPhone Pro models to titanium and glass. Following several iterations with these materials, speculation indicates the company might revert to aluminum and glass for the iPhone 17 series. Nevertheless, reports suggest that the entirely new iPhone 17 Air will be the sole model to sport a titanium finish.
Currently, GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu reports that the 2026 iPhone Fold and iPhone 18 Air will also feature a titanium frame. According to a note reviewed by BGR, Foxconn is anticipated to gain from the increasing utilization of titanium, which “is expected to be incorporated in the iPhone 18 Fold (titanium + aluminum) and iPhone 18 Air.”
The analyst additionally observes that market forecasts have been adjusted downward for the iPhone 17 cycle. Despite Apple planning a completely new design for the Pro models and unveiling an ultra-slim device, the absence of Apple Intelligence capabilities may be reducing interest in this cycle.
What we know about the iPhone Fold
After years of speculation, it seems that Apple is finally gearing up to unveil an iPhone Fold in late 2026. This device was initially anticipated to take on a Galaxy Z Flip-style design, but Apple now seems to be pursuing a Z Fold-like format.
Featuring a 7.8-inch crease-free inner display and a 5.5-inch outer screen, the iPhone Fold could be a “truly AI-driven” device. While Apple is still striving to offer its most captivating Apple Intelligence features, it may depend on third-party LLMs to remain competitive in the AI race.
Some rumors indicate the company might replace Face ID with Touch ID integrated into the Side Button. For this initial generation, the Face ID sensors could be too bulky to accommodate.
Apple is expected to concentrate on a dual-lens configuration for the rear camera along with a single front-facing lens. The secondary rear lens will be accessible in both folded and unfolded states. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts the device will measure between 9 to 9.5mm thick when folded and 4.5 to 4.8mm when unfolded. In comparison, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 measures 12.1mm when folded. If Apple achieves such thinness, it would be remarkable.
Although unconfirmed, the iPhone Fold will probably utilize the A20 or A20 Pro chip, adhering to Apple’s existing naming pattern for its processors.
