Leaked CAD Files Reveal Apple’s iPhone Fold Design and Timeline
New leaks have provided the most detailed look yet at Apple’s long-rumoured foldable smartphone. CAD drawings obtained by German tech outlet iPhone-ticker.de suggest that Apple is finalising the design for a device that could radically alter its handset lineup. Internally codenamed “V68,” this device appears to be a clamshell-style foldable that prioritises a wider, more tablet-like aspect ratio compared to its competitors.
Design and Dimensions
The leaked files indicate that the iPhone Fold will be significantly wider than current iPhone models. When folded, the device reportedly measures 83.8 millimetres in width and 120.6 millimetres in height, with a thickness of 9.6 millimetres. This form factor creates a nearly square outer display with a diagonal of roughly 5.5 inches (139.4 mm).
The primary appeal lies in its unfolded state. Once opened, the device expands to a height of 167.6 millimetres, revealing a 7.76-inch inner display. This effectively places the device in the same territory as the iPad mini, which features an 8.3-inch screen. The drawings highlight an impressively thin profile of just 4.8 millimetres when unfolded, excluding the camera bump. This makes it thinner than the current Samsung Galaxy Z Fold models.
The rear of the device seemingly sports a dual-camera system reminiscent of the iPhone 17 design, while the inner selfie camera is integrated directly into the display.
Release Date and Analyst Predictions
While the hardware design appears to be maturing, mass availability may still be some time away. According to supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the foldable iPhone is part of Apple’s “crisis-driven” innovation strategy, accelerated by the industry’s shift toward AI-integrated hardware.
Kuo predicts that while the device is scheduled for an official announcement in the second half of 2026, actual availability could be constrained. Due to early-stage yield rates and complex manufacturing ramp-ups, smooth mass shipments might not begin until early 2027. Kuo warns that the device could face severe shortages through the end of 2026 following its initial reveal.
Market Implications
The larger screen real estate is expected to play a crucial role in Apple’s AI strategy, offering a better canvas for multimodal AI content. If these leaks hold true, Apple is positioning the iPhone Fold not just as a phone but as a bridge device that merges the portability of a smartphone with the utility of a small tablet.
