Apple is preparing to enter the foldable smartphone market with an iPhone 18 Pro model expected to launch in September, according to reports from Bloomberg News. Evidence discovered in iOS 27 beta code indicates the device will feature advanced hardware-tracking for hinge angles and dual-screen integration, signaling a shift in Apple’s hardware strategy to compete with existing foldable leaders like Samsung.
What technical evidence confirms the foldable iPhone?
Software researchers, including M1Astra, identified specific labels in the iOS 27 developer beta that point directly to foldable hardware. The code includes parameters such as “foldState,” “angleDegrees,” and “mechanicalAngleDegrees,” which allow the operating system to calculate the precise position of the device’s hinge. Additional data from an Apple screen repair program confirms the inclusion of a second display, a unique cover glass layer, and two dedicated light sensors, suggesting a design that relies on dual-panel synchronization.
How does iOS 27 support a dual-screen interface?
Apple has redesigned core system widgets to accommodate larger, flexible surface areas, according to Bloomberg News. Widgets for services like Weather, News, and Music now feature expanded, full-page views that trigger when the device is unfolded. Furthermore, the macOS 27 Golden Gate update introduces enhanced iPhone Mirroring, which allows the display to scale to iPad-like proportions—a functional requirement for a device that shifts between phone and tablet form factors.
How does this compare to the existing foldable market?
While Samsung has established dominance in the foldable category with the Galaxy Z Fold series, Apple’s entry marks a shift toward ecosystem-wide integration. Samsung’s approach focuses on multi-tasking through a proprietary split-screen UI, whereas Apple’s strategy, as evidenced by the “app-adaptability” push at the ‘Platforms State of the Union’ event, focuses on universal software responsiveness. Analysts expect the new iPhone 18 Pro to carry a starting price point of approximately $2,000, placing it at the premium end of the current hardware spectrum.
The inclusion of object-recognition capabilities in Vision Pro software suggests that Apple is standardizing its internal development frameworks. This allows features like camera-integrated hardware to share the same underlying logic as the upcoming foldable iPhone.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When will the foldable iPhone be released?
According to Bloomberg News, the device is scheduled for a September launch as part of the iPhone 18 Pro series. - How much will the foldable iPhone cost?
Industry estimates cited by Bloomberg News place the starting price at approximately $2,000, though local pricing for markets like Belgium remains unconfirmed. - What does the “foldState” code mean?
The code indicates the operating system can track the mechanical angle of the phone, allowing the software to adjust the interface based on whether the device is fully open, closed, or at a partial angle.
Stay informed on the latest hardware developments by subscribing to our newsletter for real-time updates on Apple’s product roadmap.
