Apple’s expected move into foldable phones could become the biggest threat yet to Samsung’s long-standing lead in the category. The rumored iPhone Ultra Fold is said to arrive in 2026 and target the same premium segment as the Galaxy Z Fold line.
The risk for Samsung is not just a new rival, but the scale of Apple’s entry. Analysts project that Apple could capture 22% of the foldable market in its first year, reflecting the brand pull that often follows when iPhone users are given a new product format to buy.
Premium pricing sets the tone from day one
The iPhone Ultra Fold is expected to launch at around $2,000, placing it directly against Samsung’s most expensive foldables. That pricing suggests Apple is not aiming for a lower-tier entry, but for the same high-margin audience already familiar with premium foldable devices.
Its release is being linked with the iPhone 18 series in 2026, although production complexity could push availability as late as the end of December. That timing alone underlines how difficult the foldable category remains, even for a company with Apple’s manufacturing scale.
Apple’s design approach focuses on thinness and durability
Reports point to a design that combines a slim body with a reinforced frame, using titanium and aluminum in a mix inspired by the lightweight approach seen on iPhone Air. The device is also said to follow a minimal style, with only dark blue and white color options.
Apple may also move the physical buttons to the left side of the device. At the same time, the company is reportedly removing the physical SIM slot entirely and shifting to an eSIM-only setup.
The foldable form factor will rely on two displays for different use cases. The outer screen is intended for quick interactions, while the inner display is meant to deliver a larger, tablet-like experience when the phone is opened.
Samsung Display collaboration could be key to the crease problem
The outer panel is said to measure 5.5 inches, while the inner folding display reaches 7.8 inches. That combination is designed to balance everyday portability with a more expansive workspace for media, multitasking, and productivity.
One of the most important issues in foldables remains the visible crease, and Apple is reportedly working with Samsung Display on panel quality. The company is also said to be using advanced adhesive and glass technologies to make the fold line less noticeable.
That partnership carries extra weight because Samsung is not only Apple’s rival in foldables, but also a major supplier in the display chain. If Apple can deliver a cleaner fold with high-quality panels, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold lineup may feel pressure in the area users care about most.
The hinge is also expected to receive major engineering attention. Apple appears to be aiming for a smoother folding mechanism with stronger long-term durability, addressing one of the category’s most persistent concerns.
Performance, cameras, and battery capacity round out the package
Inside, the iPhone Ultra Fold is expected to use either an A20 or A20 Pro chip, paired with at least 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. That configuration would position it as a true flagship, built to handle multitasking and heavier app use on a large display.
Camera hardware is also being pushed into premium territory, with two 48 MP rear cameras and two 18 MP front cameras reportedly in development. Apple is also exploring under-display camera technology, which could help keep the screen cleaner while preserving front-camera functionality.
Battery life is another critical test for a foldable device, and Apple is reportedly preparing a 5,000 to 5,500 mAh battery. If accurate, that would make it the largest battery ever used in an iPhone.
That capacity matters because foldable phones typically consume more power than standard models. With a larger battery and an iOS 27 version optimized for foldables, including split-screen support, app continuity between screens, and more advanced multitasking tools, Apple may be preparing a device that challenges Samsung on both hardware and software.