Kim Ki-hyun, chairman of the Korean market research firm Stone Partners, has reportedly revealed a major revelation about Apple: Apple will release three innovative new form factors in the future: a foldable version, a borderless version, and a clamshell foldable version.
According to CNMO, Apple will release the iPhone Fold in 2026, its first book-shaped foldable flagship. The device will feature a book-like structure similar to the Samsung Z Fold, with a screen size approaching that of an iPad mini when unfolded horizontally. In terms of display, the device will use an LTPO+ flexible OLED panel, offering lower power consumption and a wider refresh rate adaptability. Under-display sensor (UDC) technology will enable Face ID and the front camera to be completely invisible for the first time, while the glass-middle frame (GMF) structure will minimize creases, making the unfolded screen virtually seamless. Furthermore, the display stack will utilize a COE and CPM structure to improve light transmittance and color purity.
In 2027, Apple will release the iPhone Zero Bezel, the first truly borderless candy-bar phone. This candy-bar iPhone will completely eliminate borders. It will utilize four-edge bending OLED technology, with the screen wrapping the entire mid-frame, visually eliminating the borders. Using "Crater Light Equalizing Layer" technology, Apple solves the brightness uniformity challenges of traditional four-curved screens, ensuring consistent brightness across the entire screen. Furthermore, under-screen Face ID, an under-screen camera, and under-screen sensors (UDIR fully integrated) will be fully implemented, leaving the front of the device free of any cutouts or notches.
In 2028, Apple will also release the iPhone Flip, a lightweight and portable clamshell. Designed for style and portability, it fits in the palm of your hand when closed, yet offers the full iPhone experience when unfolded. The external secondary screen can be used for framing photos, displaying notifications, and AI-powered shortcuts. The internal screen utilizes Clear OC and COE technologies to enhance display transparency and color performance. The four-sided curvature design also creates a more natural, continuous edge when folded.
