Apple is preparing major design updates for its iPhones and new foldable devices, aiming to boost growth after years of incremental upgrades, The Wall Street Journal reports.
Upcoming iPhone Redesign
Starting next year, Apple plans to launch a thinner iPhone, slimmer than the current 8mm models. This device is expected to be more affordable than the Pro versions, featuring a simplified camera system to reduce costs, the report noted.
Foldable Devices in Development
Apple is also working on two foldable devices:
- Larger Foldable: Designed as a laptop alternative, featuring a screen nearly 20-inches wide when unfolded—comparable to desktop monitors.
- Smaller Foldable: A foldable iPhone with a screen larger than the iPhone 16 Pro Max when opened.
The development of these foldables has been delayed due to technical challenges, including improving the hinge mechanism and creating a durable display cover. Apple reportedly favors an inward-folding design over a display-on-the-outside concept, sources familiar with the devices said.
Market and Competitor Analysis
Jeff Pu, an analyst at Haitong International Securities, attributed Apple’s delay in entering the foldable market to its high design standards. Competitors like Samsung and HUAWEI have struggled, with foldable phones making up only 1.5% of the global smartphone market this year, according to TrendForce.
Additionally, Counterpoint Research reported a 1% year-over-year decline in foldable shipments due to Samsung’s underwhelming Galaxy Z Flip 6 performance.
Shifting Focus on AI and New Devices
Apple’s recent iPhone updates have focused more on its AI system, Apple Intelligence, rather than hardware enhancements. However, hardware innovation appears to be regaining importance.
“It looks like Apple is leaning toward hardware upgrades to drive sales,” said Cliff Maldonado of BayStreet Research.
The last major iPhone redesign was the iPhone X in 2017. Analysts expect the upcoming devices to feature more noticeable changes than recent releases, which mostly offered minor updates.
Expanding Beyond iPhones
Apple is also reconsidering its Vision Pro mixed-reality headset strategy after experiencing slow sales. One potential approach involves using the iPhone’s chip to power the headset, potentially reducing its price and weight. However, early tests revealed the iPhone chip might not be powerful enough for some applications, the report cited.
Release Timeline and Challenges
Apple initially planned to release the larger foldable first, but may debut the foldable iPhone earlier. The company is targeting a 2026 release but could face delays due to unresolved technical challenges, insiders revealed.