Apple appears to be preparing for one of the most significant shakeups in its iPhone lineup in recent years. After sticking with the familiar four-model structure — consisting of the base iPhone, Plus, Pro, and Pro Max — the tech giant is reportedly planning to revamp its approach starting in 2025 with the iPhone 17 series. According to multiple leaks and reports, Apple will introduce a new model: the iPhone 17 Air, which is expected to replace the Plus variant. This marks a shift in Apple’s strategy, reflecting its focus on sleeker, more advanced designs, and setting the stage for an even bigger leap — a foldable iPhone targeted for a 2026 release.
In a recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, it’s confirmed that Apple is indeed working on a foldable iPhone, which will embrace a book-style design — similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold — rather than the more compact clamshell design seen on devices like the Galaxy Z Flip and Motorola Razr. The foldable iPhone is expected to incorporate several breakthroughs debuting with the iPhone 17 Air, making that device something of a technological testing ground for Apple’s long-term ambitions.
The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to be Apple’s thinnest iPhone ever, boasting an impressive 5.5mm profile — a design that could push the limits of what’s physically possible in modern smartphones. While this ultra-sleek form factor may require Apple to make trade-offs — including smaller speakers and a more compact camera system — it’s said to maintain the core iPhone experience, including improved battery performance, which could mirror or even surpass the battery life of the iPhone 16e. The iPhone 17 Air is also believed to pave the way for innovations in component miniaturization — a crucial step toward the engineering challenges of a foldable iPhone.
According to a mix of leaks and reliable analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo, Jeff Pu, and Digital Chat Station, Apple has already finalized the key hardware aspects of its upcoming foldable device. It’s expected to feature a 7.8-inch main OLED display when unfolded, paired with a 5.5-inch external screen for quick tasks when folded closed. Reports suggest that Apple is especially focused on ensuring durability — a major pain point for existing foldable phones. To address this, the company is reportedly integrating liquid metal into the hinge mechanism — a material Apple has previously experimented with in smaller components like SIM ejector tools. Liquid metal offers a unique combination of strength and flexibility, which could help minimize screen creases and enhance longevity, tackling one of the most persistent complaints with foldables on the market today.
Apple’s foldable iPhone is also expected to push the boundaries of smartphone thinness even further. When fully unfolded, the device is rumored to measure just 4.5mm thick, and between 9mm and 9.5mm when folded — making it one of the slimmest foldables ever created. Achieving this level of engineering is expected to require Apple to make some bold design decisions, including potentially removing Face ID in favor of a Touch ID sensor integrated into the side power button, a move that would save valuable internal space. Additionally, a titanium chassis — similar to the iPhone 15 Pro — is expected to be part of the design, enhancing the device’s premium feel while keeping the weight down.
Battery life is another area of intense focus. Apple is rumored to be exploring high-density battery technology to ensure the foldable iPhone can deliver all-day battery life, even with the larger, more power-hungry display. Although exact specifications remain unclear, the company appears committed to addressing the battery life shortcomings that have plagued other foldable devices from Samsung, Google, and Huawei.
In terms of pricing, Mark Gurman predicts the foldable iPhone will carry a hefty price tag, likely starting at $2000 (approximately ₹1,71,885). This would position it as a luxury, high-end device — likely aimed at early adopters and Apple enthusiasts willing to pay a premium for cutting-edge technology. Additionally, Gurman notes that early production may be slow, which could result in limited availability during its first few months on the market. If Apple sticks to its current development timeline, the foldable iPhone is expected to launch as part of the iPhone 18 lineup in 2026.
Apple’s move into the foldable market represents more than just a product refresh — it signals a broader strategic pivot for the company. After years of incremental upgrades, the introduction of the iPhone 17 Air and a foldable iPhone showcases Apple’s ambition to redefine the smartphone landscape. By combining groundbreaking design with advanced materials and next-gen battery technology, Apple seems poised to offer a foldable device that could potentially outclass current market leaders. If successful, this could mark a new era for iPhone, setting the standard for foldable smartphones and ultra-slim designs alike.
