Apple’s first foldable iPhone design leaked; 7.8-inch display and touch ID can be highlight

Apple’s first foldable iPhone design Leak Signals a Major Shift in iPhone EvolutionApple’s long-rumoured entry into the foldable smartphone segment appears to be edging closer, as a newly surfaced design leak offers an early look at what could be the company’s first foldable iPhone. The leaked visuals, shared online, hint at a premium, book-style foldable device that could mark one of the most significant design shifts in the iPhone’s history.According to The Times of India, the leaked design suggests that Apple is working on a foldable iPhone that opens like a book, bringing a tablet-sized display into a smartphone form factor. The report notes that the device “may offer a design similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series, but with Apple’s own refinements.”Refined Layout and Familiar Apple Design LanguageThe leak indicates that Apple is maintaining its minimalist approach while rethinking button placement to accommodate the foldable form. The Times of India reports that the volume buttons are positioned on the top edge, aligned toward the right, a layout reminiscent of the iPad mini. Meanwhile, the power button, which is also expected to house Touch ID, and the camera control buttons remain on the right side of the device, while the left edge is completely clean.On the exterior, the foldable iPhone is said to feature an iPhone Air-style camera plateau with two horizontally aligned cameras, a microphone, and a flash. Notably, the report adds that the camera module may be finished in black regardless of the phone’s body colour, giving the device a distinct visual identity.Display changes and biometric shiftDisplay-related changes appear to be a key focus of Apple’s foldable plans. The Times of India notes that the leaked design shows a smaller Dynamic Island, enabled by a single punch-hole front camera, which would increase usable screen space on both the outer and inner displays.In a notable departure from recent iPhone models, the foldable iPhone is also expected to bring back Touch ID, potentially integrated into the power button. This move could offer users an alternative to Face ID, especially when using the phone in folded or partially folded modes.The report further suggests that the inner foldable display could measure around 7.8 inches, effectively turning the iPhone into a compact tablet when unfolded.Build, colours and launch timelineFrom a materials standpoint, Apple is expected to rely on a combination of titanium and aluminium, ensuring durability while keeping the device lightweight — a crucial factor for foldable smartphones. As per The Times of India, the foldable iPhone may initially launch in white and one additional colour option, aligning with Apple’s understated aesthetic.While Apple has not confirmed any official timeline, industry speculation cited by The Times of India points to apossible 2026 launch, giving the company ample time to refine hinge durability and display technology before entering the foldable market.Strategic move into foldablesApple’s entry into foldable smartphones could significantly reshape the segment, which is currently dominated by Android manufacturers. By focusing on design consistency, biometric flexibility, and a refined user experience, Apple may aim to position its foldable iPhone as a premium productivity-focused device rather than a novelty.As The Times of India highlights, while these details remain based on leaks, they collectively suggest that Apple is preparing a carefully engineered, late-entry foldable iPhone — one designed to meet the company’s exacting standards rather than rushing to market.