Apple is expected to introduce a foldable iPhone as early as 2026, according to a report from The Information published Tuesday, which would represent the biggest overhaul in the design of the company's most popular device.
Cupertino, California-based Apple's plan to launch a foldable iPhone could echo a similar move by Samsung, which pioneered the foldable phone segment in 2019 in an attempt to attract new customers with a major design upgrade.
Apple's foldable iPhone has moved beyond the idea stage, according to the report, which cited two sources familiar with the matter.
The Information said the company was looking for suppliers in Asia to manufacture components for the device, adding that the iPhone maker had created an internal codename V68 for the product.
Foldable smartphones with AI features are expected to boost demand for the iPhone maker, which faces stiff competition from Honor and Huawei in China, and Samsung globally.
The report also says that there is no guarantee that Apple will launch a foldable iPhone.
Apple did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment.
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