# The Anticipated Debut of the iPhone Fold: What We Know Thus Far
For several years, the tech world has pondered the possible launch of a foldable iPhone. Recent sources indicate that Apple is finally progressing toward this groundbreaking design, with the iPhone Fold set to debut next year. This article explores the most recent updates regarding the iPhone Fold, covering its design specifications, features, and the expected incorporation of Face ID technology.
## iPhone Fold Anticipated Next Year
Speculations about a foldable iPhone go back to at least 2017, when Apple submitted a patent for a folding display. Over time, rumors have escalated, especially after a leaked memorandum from Apple’s John Ternus, which characterized the company’s iPhone plan as “the most ambitious in the product’s history.” This memorandum was succeeded by reports from major media outlets, suggesting that 2026 could be the year Apple finally reveals its foldable device.
The design trajectory for the iPhone Fold seems to favor a “Fold” model, which would expand from a standard-sized iPhone into a device roughly the size of an iPad mini. This strategy contrasts with the “Flip” design that some anticipated Apple might explore.
## Face ID Integrated into the Display
One of the most thrilling features anticipated in the iPhone Fold is the inclusion of Face ID technology beneath the display. While it is technically possible to embed a front-facing camera into a smartphone display, prior efforts by Android manufacturers have revealed quality trade-offs. Apple has been developing this technology, and a recent patent implies they may have resolved critical issues.
The main challenge with embedding Face ID within a display is the transmission of infrared light, essential for facial recognition. Apple’s approach might involve selectively turning off certain pixels or eliminating subpixels to improve infrared transmission, ensuring that Face ID remains swift and dependable.
## Insights Regarding the iPhone Fold from a Leaker
A reliable leaker identified as Digital Chat Station (DCS) has provided insights indicating that the iPhone Fold will feature an outer display with a punch-hole camera and an inner display equipped with under-screen camera technology. This aligns with expectations that the inner display will accommodate integrated Face ID technology, bolstering the user experience while preserving a stylish design.
## Potential Screen Dimensions for the iPhone Fold
DCS has also disclosed possible screen sizes and pixel resolutions for both the inner and outer screens of the iPhone Fold. According to the leak, the inner screen will measure approximately 7.76 inches with a resolution of 2713 x 1920 pixels, while the outer screen will be around 5.49 inches with a resolution of 2088 x 1422 pixels. These specifications closely match earlier reports from prominent analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who estimated the outer display at 5.5 inches and the inner display at 7.8 inches.
While Kuo initially theorized that the iPhone Fold might feature Touch ID instead of Face ID due to thickness limitations, the latest information from DCS implies that Apple is indeed pursuing the more sophisticated Face ID technology.
## 9to5Mac’s Perspective
As excitement mounts for the iPhone Fold, there is a growing agreement that Apple is on course to launch the device next year. However, the impact of this new model on the marketplace remains ambiguous. Analysts foresee that the iPhone Fold could rejuvenate iPhone sales, but with an anticipated price of around $2,000, it may mainly attract a niche audience.
The first generation of the iPhone Fold is likely to act as a proof of concept, similar to Apple’s Vision Pro, paving the way for more budget-friendly variations in the future.
## Conclusion
The iPhone Fold signifies a major advancement in smartphone technology, merging innovative design with cutting-edge features like embedded Face ID. As we wait for its official announcement, the enthusiasm surrounding this device continues to swell, promising to alter the mobile technology landscape. Whether it will become a mainstream hit or remain a luxury gadget for early adopters is yet to be determined, but one thing is certain: Apple is set to make a bold impact with its first foldable iPhone.
