Apple is gradually unveiling details of its highly anticipated foldable iPhone, expected to hit the market this fall. Apple’s first foldable device is rumored to feature a slightly more compact display than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, but with a beefier battery. Button placement is also getting a makeover.
According to tech insider Instant Digital on Wednesday, Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone will likely sport volume controls on the upper right side. This marks a departure from current iPhone models, which house these buttons on the left edge.
This layout echoes the design of the iPad Mini. The left side is expected to remain sleek and button-free, while the power and artificial intelligence (AI) buttons will probably find their home on the right edge.
This configuration likely takes into account the unique architecture of foldable phones, with the mainboard situated on the right. Placing buttons closer to the mainboard allows for more efficient use of internal real estate.
The space saved is expected to be channeled into boosting battery capacity. The foldable iPhone is rumored to pack a hefty 5,500mAh battery, outstripping the Z Fold 7’s 4,400mAh power source.
The rear camera setup is likely to adopt a horizontal layout, featuring two lenses, a microphone, and a flash arranged in a row. The camera module is expected to sport a black finish, regardless of the device’s body color.
As of now, white seems to be the confirmed color for the foldable iPhone. However, speculation suggests that Apple may introduce a second color option before launch.
Reports indicate that the foldable iPhone’s display will measure 7.8 inches when unfolded and 5.5 inches when closed. The device is expected to carry a price tag between 2,000 and 2,500 USD. For comparison, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 boasts an 8-inch display when open and a 6.5-inch screen when closed, with prices ranging from around 1,784 USD for the 256GB model, around 1,903 USD for the 512GB model, to about 2,200 USD for the 1TB version.
Industry watchers anticipate the foldable iPhone to debut alongside the iPhone 18 series this September. Following this launch, Apple is reportedly exploring the possibility of introducing a flip-style foldable iPhone in the future.