iPhone Fold shows up in updated CAD renders

New CAD renders of Apple's rumored iPhone Fold have surfaced, offering the clearest look yet at what could be the company's first foldable smartphone. The images, shared by well-known leaker Sonny Dickson, align with previous speculation about the device's design and features.

Design echoes Google's approach

The renders confirm earlier rumors that Apple is taking a similar approach to Google's first-generation Pixel Fold, with a wide cover screen that's more practical for one-handed use. The front display is said to measure 5.5 inches and feature a single punch-hole cutout for the selfie camera in the top center.

Unlike many current book-style foldables that opt for square-ish aspect ratios, the iPhone Fold is expected to use a 4:3 aspect ratio for its cover screen. This wider format should make the device more comfortable to use when closed, addressing one of the main criticisms of existing foldable designs.

Camera and display details emerge

The camera system appears to feature a distinctive plateau housing on the rear, containing two sensors and an LED flash. Recent speculation suggests these will be 48MP shooters, though Apple's typical approach to computational photography means raw megapixel counts don't tell the full story.

When unfolded, the main 7.8-inch display is rumored to feature minimal creasing - though not completely absent - and will include a punch-hole cutout in the top-left corner for a second selfie camera. Both front-facing cameras are expected to offer 18MP resolution, suggesting Apple is prioritizing quality over the trend of cramming in more megapixels.

Premium materials and ambitious specs

The hinge mechanism will reportedly use liquid metal, while the frame will be constructed from titanium. This combination aims to keep weight down while maintaining durability - a crucial consideration for a device with moving parts that will likely see heavy daily use.

Powering the device will be a substantial 5,500mAh battery, which would be the largest ever in an iPhone. This aligns with reports that the iPhone Fold could become Apple's most expensive smartphone to date, with a starting price exceeding $2,000.

Launch timeline and market positioning

If the rumors prove accurate, the iPhone Fold is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series later this year. This staggered approach would allow Apple to position the foldable as a premium alternative rather than a replacement for its flagship lineup.

The design philosophy appears focused on practicality over novelty. By adopting a wider cover screen ratio and emphasizing minimal creasing, Apple seems intent on solving the usability issues that have plagued earlier foldable devices. Whether this approach will be enough to justify the premium price point remains to be seen, but the renders suggest Apple is taking a methodical, user-focused approach to its entry into the foldable market.