Multiple supply chain sources predict that Apple will completely overhaul its phone portfolio over the next three years. The book-like foldable iPhone Fold is expected to arrive in 2026, followed by the anniversary bezel-less iPhone 20 - the iPhone without a bezel - and the clamshell iPhone Flip in 2028.
Apple is still outside the foldable phone segment, but in recent weeks rumors have gathered that indicate a clear strategy for the next three years. After the first generation of the foldable phone iPhone 11, expected in late 2026, the company is expected to introduce a new form factor every year. Analyses by Korean suppliers and undercover findings from analytical firms hint at an extremely ambitious plan: first, a device with a foldable screen the size of an iPad mini, then a completely bezel-less anniversary model – the iPhone without a bezel, and finally, a clamshell-style flip phone.
iPhone Fold: a book-like foldable phone the size of an iPad mini
The first on the list is iPhone 11, which has been a constant source of rumors for the past two years. According to MacRumors, the device will use a flexible OLED LTPO+ display that will unfold to an area of about 21.1 cm (8.3 inches), which is comparable to the iPad mini. Yellow sources say that Apple will use a glass center frame to reduce the crease in the middle, as well as a color filter layer and a polarizing module for better color reproduction. The device is said to offer a sub-display solution for Face ID and cameras, which means a completely continuous screen surface. Thus, the iPhone Fold is supposed to combine the features of the iPhone and iPad, allowing for multitasking and viewing content on a larger surface. The rumors do not mention the possible diagonal of the external screen, but other analyses indicate a range between 19.5 and 20 cm (7.7-7.9 inches), which is still smaller than the iPad mini, but larger than regular iPhones.
iPhone 20 Anniversary: A bezel-less phone for 2027 – iPhone without a bezel
The year 2027 will bring 20th anniversary of the iPhone, so Apple is expected to skip the iPhone 19 label and introduce an anniversary model called the iPhone 20. Rumors from the Korean platform Naver, which summarizes MacRumors, they say that this phone will be a completely borderless “candybar” with an OLED screen that will bend over all four edges of the device. For uniform lighting, Apple is said to use a special crater-shaped diffusion layer that will equalize the brightness of the screen. For facial recognition and sensors, integrated sub-display solutions are said to be used, meaning that Face ID, the camera and other sensors will be hidden under the glass surface. The end result is said to be a visually stunning phone without physical borders, which will mark two decades of iPhone development. Due to the innovative design and advanced technology, a higher price is expected, but also strong symbolism; Apple wants to show its design power and knowledge with this model.
iPhone Flip: a flip phone with a lightweight design
Apple is expected to expand its foldable phone lineup in 2028 with a vertically foldable iPhone Flip. Sources report that the device will have a simple external display to display basic information, notifications, and AI shortcuts. The main display will fold vertically, similar to a clamshell phone, with Apple reportedly using lightweight materials and curved edges to give the phone a sleek and stylish look. The device is expected to target users who value compactness – the phone will be small and light when folded, but will open to reveal a larger display. The announcement also mentions the use of Clear Organic Cathode technology and a color filter on the encapsulation for better light transmission and purer colors.
Warning: rumors and the future
Both AppleInsider and NotebookCheck emphasize that all of this information is just rumors originating from Asian supply chains and anonymous “leakers”. Apple has not yet confirmed the plans and the timelines may change or be postponed. Also, questions remain open, such as the price of these devices, battery capacity and the actual usability of large foldable screens. Nevertheless, the fact that these devices are being discussed on several international portals shows that Apple is seriously considering new forms of the iPhone. If the rumors are correct, the next three years will bring a real revolution in the iPhone range, which will change our perception of smartphones.
