iOS 27 brings a host of features for Apple's first foldable iPhone

Foldable smartphones are no longer a new thing. The design has been around for quite some time, and Samsung, the pioneer, is already on its seventh generation. Now that the technology and market acceptance have matured, Apple is finally getting in on the game with its first foldable phone, slated for release in 2026.

Apple's next iOS 27 update will prioritize new features for the rumored foldable iPhone, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Development on iOS 27 will begin soon, and Apple wants to focus heavily on the foldable experience.

With its first foldable iPhone, Apple is entering a mature market, and the company isn't expected to make as big a splash as it did with the original Apple Vision Pro. Apple is reportedly aiming for a design similar to the Galaxy Z Fold7 with an inward-folding display. However, the first iPhone is rumored to feature some notable improvements to the display crease and hinge.

Foldable phones are becoming increasingly popular in China, and Apple can no longer afford to ignore the market. Launching an expensive foldable iPhone would help the company increase sales and rekindle interest in its flagship product. Many users are interested in trying a book-style foldable phone, but the fact that Android is the only platform option is a major hurdle. With Apple joining the fray, the form factor would become much more appealing to users.

However, users will have to prepare a pretty big wallet. The first foldable iPhone is expected to cost no less than $ 2,000 , meaning that the "price shock" like the iPhone X in 2017 or the Apple Vision Pro in 2023 will absolutely be able to repeat itself next year.

Samuel Daniel

Update 24 July 2025