Rumors about Apple's first foldable iPhone continue to grow. According to a new report from analyst Jeff Pu, the long-awaited iPhone 18 Fold, expected in 2026, will rely on a hybrid metal structure composed of aluminum and titanium, a choice that would balance strength, lightness and heat dissipation.
A mix of materials for the first foldable iPhone
In a note addressed to investors, to which he has had access 9to5Mac, Pu explains that the frame of the device would be made with a combination of aluminum and titanium, although it does not specify how both materials will be distributed in the chassis.
This information partially coincides with previous reports from Ming-Chi Kuo, who stated that the device's hinge would use stainless steel and titanium, while the outer casing would be made entirely of titanium.
For its part, Bloomberg described the iPhone Fold's design as "two titanium iPhone Airs joined by a hinge," a comparison that reinforces the idea of a thinner, more symmetrical device than traditional foldables. According to the most recent leaks, the iPhone 18 Fold will integrate a 5,5-inch external screen —similar in size to the iPhone mini— and a 7,8 inch internal screen, close to the diagonal of the iPad mini. Although initial prototypes considered including Face ID under the screen, current reports suggest that The device will eventually be launched with Touch ID as the primary authentication method. biometric.
The role of iOS 27 in the foldable experience
The launch of the iPhone 18 Fold will also mark a significant evolution in the operating system. Bloomberg sources indicate that iOS 27 will be designed with a strong focus on the folding format, incorporating new multitasking functions, interface optimization, and specific adaptations for dual-screen use.
These new features aim to ensure a smooth user experience in both phone and tablet modes, an integration that Apple has been working on internally for years. Currently, Apple reserves titanium for the iPhone Air, after replacing titanium with aluminum in this year's iPhone Pro models. a decision motivated by the need to improve thermal management and reduce weight.
The combined use of both metals in the iPhone Fold could represent a compromise between premium features and structural efficiency, maintaining a sense of solidity without compromising weight.
While most leaks refer to the device as the iPhone 18 Fold, some analysts suggest that Apple could simplify the name and release it simply as the iPhone Fold, separate from the rest of the lineup. The current generation, recall, is made up of the iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone Pro, and iPhone Pro Max models.