The Foldable iPhone has been a tech buzzword, with Apple seemingly developing its first foldable phone for release as early as 2026, set to coincide probably with the iPhone 18 lineup at its yearly event. But early leaks indicate that the foldable iPhone may not hold a candle to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, which is building up to be a powerhouse in the space. Let’s break down the latest information and compare Apple’s first foldable to the competition.
Foldable iPhone Rumors: Will Apple Keep Up With Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7?
According to trusted leaker Digital Chat Station, the foldable iPhone may have a 7.58-inch inner display measuring 14.1:10 in aspect ratio and 2,713 x 1,920 pixels resolution. Although these are good-looking specs, they are lower than the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s speculated 8.2-inch main screen, which provides more real estate for multitasking, gaming, and video viewing. For customers who value screen real estate, Samsung’s foldable is already at a definite advantage.
Camera features on the foldable iPhone also appear disappointing from existing leaks. According to Digital Chat Station, a dual 48MP rear-camera configuration, but no information is given about front-facing cameras, essential for selfies and video calling on foldables. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold lineup, however, has upgraded its camera technology, such as under-display cameras to enable a smooth inner screen. Apple’s play-it-safe strategy could have fans hoping for more advancement.
Will the Foldable iPhone’s Build Quality Be Better Than the Rest?
Despite its shortcomings in display and camera specs, Apple may have a trump card with the foldable iPhone’s build quality. Rumors suggest Apple is exploring liquid metal for the hinge and titanium for the external frame, aiming for a premium and durable design. This focus could address durability concerns that have plagued some foldable devices, including Samsung’s earlier models, making the foldable iPhone a standout for longevity.
Apple’s collaboration with Samsung Display for foldable OLED screens is a fascinating aspect. While this guarantees a high-quality screen, it also means Apple has to depend on Samsung’s experience in foldables, which might make it more challenging to make the foldable iPhone stand out compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 7. Apple will have to offer something special to compete against Samsung, considering its extensive experience in foldables.
The folding iPhone is not yet available and hasn’t yet reached mass production, leaving Apple with time to perfect its strategy before the rumored 2026 release. Still, going off rumors, the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s expanded screen and useful features have an obvious advantage. Apple’s ecosystem and brand loyalty might still win over consumers, but it might have to innovate further to keep up with Samsung’s foldable supremacy.
For the moment, the foldable iPhone appears to be a tentative foray into the foldable category with high-end materials as its best-selling aspect. As we wait for further leaks, technology enthusiasts can only watch and see what Apple does next. Will the foldable iPhone revolutionize the category, or will it fall behind Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7?
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