Apple's Foldable iPhone to Feature Redesigned Controls and Enhanced Battery

Apple's anticipated foldable iPhone is expected to bring significant design changes, including a revised button configuration and a substantial battery upgrade. According to leaks from Weibo user Instant Digital, the device will retain the power and camera buttons on the right side, while relocating the volume controls to the top right, aligning more closely with iPad-style controls. This adjustment may require users to adapt their habitual interactions with the device.

The front camera is rumored to adopt a punch-hole design, moving away from the current Dynamic Island feature. Additionally, Apple appears to be favoring Touch ID over Face ID for this model. The rear of the device is expected to showcase a horizontally aligned dual-camera system, deviating from the traditional vertical arrangement seen in previous iPhone models. The chassis is reportedly white with a contrasting black camera module.

A standout feature of the foldable iPhone is its battery capacity, which is said to be the largest ever incorporated into an Apple smartphone. This enhancement is likely to appeal to users seeking extended usage between charges.

In terms of display technology, Apple is reportedly exploring the use of clear polyimide (CPI) films, known for their durability and resistance to scratches, to protect the foldable screen. South Korea's Kolon Industry is considered a leading candidate to supply the CPI film, while China's Lens Technology may provide ultra-thin glass and manage the bonding process between layers. The objective is to deliver a crease-free, robust display that offers a premium user experience.

The camera system is expected to include four cameras: two on the back, one under the inner display, and one on the outer screen. The under-display camera could feature a 24-megapixel sensor, surpassing the resolutions found in current Android foldables. The rear cameras are rumored to consist of a 48-megapixel main lens and a 48-megapixel ultra-wide lens, with no telephoto lens included.

If these leaks are accurate, Apple may launch the foldable iPhone in the latter half of 2026, potentially alongside the iPhone 18 lineup in September. These developments suggest that Apple is making significant strides in the foldable smartphone market.