Apple’s Foldable iPhone Leak Reveals a Pocket-Sized iPad Mini Rival

Metric Value Unit Notes
Inner Display Size 7.76 inch Unfolded iPad mini rival
Outer Display Size 5.5 inch Wider-than-tall aspect ratio
Resolution 2,713 x 1,920 pixels High density for split-screen apps
Folded Thickness 9.6 mm Allows for crease-free engineering
Unfolded Thickness 4.8 mm Ultra-slim profile
Hinge/Frame Material Titanium & Aluminum For improved durability and weight
Projected Launch September 2026 Expected release window

A recent Apple foldable CAD leak has surfaced, giving us the clearest look yet at the company’s internal progress on a folding iPhone. Codenamed V68, this device aims to take the massive utility of an iPad mini and shrink it down into a footprint that actually fits into a pair of jeans. Scheduled for a late 2026 debut, the leak reveals a device that prioritizes ergonomics over the tall, lanky silhouettes seen in the current market.

When closed, the device features a 5.5 inch outer display. While that sounds small on paper, the geometry is the story here. At 83.8mm wide and 120.6mm tall, it is wider and shorter than a standard smartphone, making it incredibly easy to use with one hand for quick replies or checking notifications. It seems intended to feel more like a small notebook than a television remote, addressing one of the biggest ergonomic gripes users have with modern foldables.

The iPad Mini in Your Pocket

The magic happens when you crack the device open. The leaked Apple foldable expands into a 7.76 inch powerhouse. With a resolution of 2,713 x 1,920, it provides a canvas nearly identical to Apple’s smallest tablet. This is perfect for power users who want to run split-screen apps or take notes without feeling cramped. Imagine being on a flight and unfolding your phone to review a spreadsheet or sketch out an idea, then folding it back up to slip into your pocket as you deboard.

What sets this apart from competitors is the display technology. Apple is reportedly utilizing laser-drilled microstructures within the panel. This tech is designed to produce a truly crease-free experience, a feat that has remained elusive for even the most seasoned manufacturers. While players like Samsung have pushed the limits of hinge design, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 and Fold series still struggle with that visible dip in the center. Apple appears willing to wait until the tech is perfect before shipping.

Engineering for Durability

In terms of physical build, Apple is going for a premium mix of titanium and aluminum. The CAD files show a folded thickness of 9.6mm. While some rivals are chasing absolute thinness, Apple is keeping a bit of extra girth to accommodate that crease-free display architecture. When unfolded, it becomes a razor-thin 4.8mm slab. For perspective, that is even thinner than the rumored “iPhone Air” model, yet it feels substantial enough to survive daily wear and tear.

The camera setup looks familiar, featuring a dual rear system that mirrors the upcoming iPhone 17. Rather than chasing high megapixel counts across four or five sensors, the focus remains on color accuracy and low light performance. On the inside, there is an under-display selfie camera. This means no notch or hole-punch to distract you while watching a movie or reading an ebook, creating a seamless piece of digital paper.

While the launch is still a ways off, these renders suggest Apple has been watching the competition closely. They aren’t just making a phone that folds, they are trying to fix the problems of the foldable category. By focusing on a wider stance and a smooth screen, they might finally convince the holdouts that the future is flexible. However, even with great design, scarcity could be a factor during the initial launch phase due to the complexity of these new components.

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