Apple is set to launch the iPhone 18 Pro Max and its first foldable iPhone in late 2026, featuring a near‑borderless under‑display front camera, an adaptive 120 Hz 6.7‑inch Pro Max screen, the new A18 Bionic chip, and a dual‑screen foldable design that blurs the line between phone and tablet.
Disruptive Design and New Front Display
The iPhone 18 Pro series will abandon the traditional notch, replacing it with a fully under‑display front camera and sensors. This change pushes the screen‑to‑body ratio above 94 %, delivering a truly edge‑to‑edge experience that rivals current foldable competitors.
Under‑Display Front Camera
By embedding the selfie camera beneath the display, Apple eliminates visual interruptions and enhances overall aesthetics. The technology builds on prototype concepts from 2024, now ready for mass production.
Reordered Product Roadmap
Apple will prioritize premium models, unveiling the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the foldable iPhone before the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Air. This strategy aims to capture higher margins and set a new technological benchmark for the industry.
Key Specifications and Rumored Technical Details
- iPhone 18 Pro Max: 6.7‑inch adaptive 120 Hz display, A18 Bionic chip, 48 MP main sensor, 12 MP ultra‑wide, 10× periscope telephoto lens.
- iPhone Foldable: Internal 7.2‑inch and external 6.1‑inch under‑display screens, both with 120 Hz refresh rate, 180° hinge angle, tablet‑like durability.
Market Impact and Competitive Landscape
A foldable iPhone priced around $1,399 would undercut current premium foldables that exceed $1,500, forcing rivals such as Samsung and Huawei to accelerate their own developments. The removal of the notch and full integration of the camera also pressure other manufacturers like Google and Xiaomi to match Apple’s hardware‑software synergy.
Launch Timeline and Expectations
Apple is expected to announce these devices at its September 2026 event, with shipments beginning in late October or early November to align with the holiday shopping season. Production sources report that hinge components for the foldable are already in testing, indicating advanced prototype readiness.
Conclusion
The iPhone 18 Pro Max and the inaugural iPhone foldable represent a strategic shift for Apple, moving beyond incremental upgrades to redefine smartphone form factors. If the rumored features materialize, Apple will not only deliver superior performance and camera capabilities but also set a new standard where the distinction between phone and tablet disappears.
