Apple iPhone Fold Testing Reportedly Underway: What We Know So Far

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-Kabir Jain

Published: Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 17:30 [IST]

Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone may finally be moving out of theory and into testing. A new leak suggests the company has already started internal evaluation of its first foldable phone, and if the details hold up, Apple is taking a very different approach from most early foldables.

The information comes from Digital Chat Station, a tipster with a solid track record around supply-chain leaks. While Apple hasn’t confirmed anything publicly, the report gives us a clearer sense of how the company is thinking about its first foldable.

Early testing is already underway

According to the leak, Apple’s foldable iPhone has entered early internal testing. Rather than treating it as a risky experiment, Apple is said to be positioning this as a mature, industry-level product.

The device is expected to debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, which points to a possible September launch window. That timing also suggests Apple believes the form factor is finally ready for a wider audience.

A smaller foldable, by design

One of the more interesting details is the screen size. The inner display is tipped to measure around 7.58 inches, while the outer screen could land near 5.25 inches.

That’s slightly smaller than what earlier rumours suggested, and that might be intentional. A more compact foldable could improve grip, balance, and day-to-day usability, areas where many foldables still struggle. If Apple is shrinking things a bit, it likely means comfort is being prioritised over headline numbers.

A new chip and software built for folding screens

The leak also claims Apple is working on a new in-house application processor designed specifically for this foldable form factor. That fits Apple’s usual playbook of tight hardware and software integration, especially when dealing with unconventional designs.

Alongside the chip, the foldable iPhone is said to ship with a foldable-focused version of iOS. The goal here seems to be smoother app transitions, better multi-screen behaviour, and fewer awkward UI moments when switching between folded and unfolded states.

Apple’s focus seems to be feel, not flash

Unlike many first-generation foldables that leaned hard into specs, Apple appears to be concentrating on design maturity. According to the tipster, in-hand feel, grip, and overall refinement are major priorities.

That cautious approach makes sense. Apple has watched foldables struggle with durability, creases, and ergonomics for years. Waiting longer gives it a chance to enter the category with fewer compromises.

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