Apple is reportedly gearing up for one of its biggest product leaps yet — the introduction of its first foldable iPhone under the iPhone 18 series. According to industry leaks, the 2026 lineup may mark a significant shift in both design and performance, as it could be powered by Apple’s first-ever 2nm A20 Bionic chip, delivering unprecedented efficiency and processing power.

A20 Chip to Usher in Apple’s Next-Gen Silicon Era

The A20 Bionic chip is expected to be Apple’s first built using TSMC’s 2-nanometer process, succeeding the 3nm A18 chips expected in next year’s iPhone 17 series. This advancement could provide a 35–40% boost in power efficiency and improved AI computation capabilities, setting a new benchmark for smartphone silicon. The A20 chip will reportedly focus on neural processing and graphics performance, aligning with Apple’s growing emphasis on on-device AI and extended reality (XR) experiences.

Apple’s First Foldable iPhone: Design and Display Details

The foldable iPhone, rumored to debut alongside the standard iPhone 18 models, is said to feature a clamshell-style design similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip lineup. Sources suggest Apple is experimenting with ultra-thin glass (UTG) and a durable hinge mechanism that could support more than 200,000 folds without wear. The device might feature a main 7.9-inch OLED display and a secondary 2-inch outer screen, making it both compact and functional.

iPhone 18 Lineup: Performance and Features

Beyond the foldable variant, the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are rumored to feature titanium frames, improved camera sensors, and a refined Dynamic Island design. Apple may also bring under-display Face ID technology for a seamless front panel, while storage options could start at 256GB. The series is expected to ship with iOS 20, potentially integrating advanced AI features and tighter ecosystem connectivity across iPads and Macs.

Expected Launch Timeline and Market Impact

Industry analysts believe the iPhone 18 series could launch in September 2026, with the foldable iPhone possibly arriving as a premium Ultra model. If accurate, Apple’s entry into the foldable market could reshape the premium smartphone landscape, challenging Samsung, Huawei, and Google’s dominance in flexible display technology.