Multiple sources, including various Weibo leakers and analyst reports, have provided details regarding the design, internal structure, and specifications of Apple's first rumored foldable iPhone. These reports suggest specific button placements, camera configurations, internal component arrangements, and a potentially large battery capacity.
The device is anticipated to feature a multi-display setup and may launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
Information shared by these sources, some of whom have a track record of providing accurate details on Apple products, outlines various aspects of the rumored device.
Design and External Features
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Button Placement:
- Volume buttons are reportedly located on the top right side of the device, a placement described as similar to the iPad mini.
- The right side is also expected to house the power button, which is rumored to integrate Touch ID, and a dedicated Camera Control button, potentially incorporating AI features.
- The left side of the device is anticipated to be free of physical buttons.
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Front-Facing Camera: The device is expected to feature a single punch-hole design, contributing to a smaller Dynamic Island and a compact cutout. Reports suggest the device will utilize Touch ID as its primary biometric authentication, with a rumored absence of Face ID. A 24-megapixel front-facing camera has also been mentioned in some reports.
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Rear Camera Module: Reports indicate the device will include two horizontally arranged cameras, a microphone, and a flash. Sources differ on the exact placement of this module, with some suggesting the back left and others the right side of the device. The camera module's base is described as black, irrespective of the device's body color.
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Color Options: White is reportedly a confirmed color, with one additional color expected at launch.
Internal Structure and Battery
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Motherboard: The motherboard is reportedly situated on the right side of the device. This placement is cited as a reason for the button arrangement, allowing volume button cables to run directly upwards and maximizing internal space.
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Internal Design: The internal structure is described as an efficient, stacked design, prioritizing space for the display and battery.
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Battery Capacity:
The device is rumored to feature the largest battery ever in an iPhone, with capacities exceeding 5,500 mAh.
Previous reports from leaker "yeux1122" indicated that Apple was testing batteries in the 5,400–5,800 mAh range. This emphasis on battery life is attributed to Apple's focus on improving power efficiency, reducing component size, and the use of high-density cells, as stated by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. For comparison, the current iPhone 17 Pro Max features a 5,088 mAh battery.
Display and Core Components
- Inner Display: The internal display is anticipated to be a 7.8-inch crease-free screen.
- Cover Display: The external cover display is expected to measure 5.5 inches.
- Processor: The device is rumored to incorporate the A20 chip.
- Modem: Reports suggest the inclusion of the "C2" modem.
Anticipated Launch and Form Factors
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Launch Timeline: The first foldable iPhone is anticipated to launch concurrently with the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, potentially in the fall.
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Foldable Styles:
While a "book-style" foldable is widely anticipated as the initial release, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series, Apple is also reportedly testing a "flip-style" or "clamshell-style" design.
The "book-style" foldable is widely anticipated as the initial release, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series. Apple is also reportedly testing a "flip-style" or "clamshell-style" design, according to leaker "Fixed Focus Digital." This flip-style variant would compete with devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip. The decision regarding mass production for the flip-style foldable has not been finalized, and it is expected to launch after the initial book-style model. The book-style aims to provide a larger inner display for media and multitasking, while the clamshell model would prioritize portability.
Broader Context
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iPhone 18 Pro Max Battery: Separately, rumors from Weibo user "Digital Chat Station" suggest the iPhone 18 Pro Max will feature a battery capacity between 5,100 mAh and 5,200 mAh. This, combined with efficiency improvements from the A20 Pro chip (expected to be produced using TSMC's 2nm process), could contribute to extended battery life, potentially exceeding 40 hours. The device may also have an increased thickness.
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Other iPhone 18 Pro/Pro Max Features: Expected updates for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max include a smaller Dynamic Island, a C2 modem, a simplified Camera Control, a 24-megapixel front-facing camera, and an upgraded main camera with a variable aperture.