Apple’s iPhone Fold Shows Unusual Squat Dimensions in New CAD Renders
Apple’s highly anticipated foldable smartphone, commonly referred to as the iPhone Fold, has been the subject of much speculation ahead of its expected 2026 release. Recently, a German website, iphone-ticker, published CAD renders of the device that reveal a surprisingly squat and compact design. According to these renders, the iPhone Fold measures 83.8mm in width, 120.6mm in height, and 9.6mm in thickness when folded, presenting a form factor that feels shorter and wider compared to typical smartphones.
When unfolded, the device’s screen diagonal spans 139.4mm, equating to a 7.76-inch display. This size is slightly smaller than the iPad mini’s 8.3-inch screen, giving the iPhone Fold a unique footprint among foldables. Additionally, the hinge protrudes 1.8mm from the side when the device is folded, a detail that might influence handling and pocketability.
Key Features and Specifications
The CAD dimensions align well with earlier reports from The Information, which indicated the iPhone Fold will feature a 7.7-inch inner display alongside a 5.3-inch outer screen. The foldable display is said to incorporate a crease-less design, utilising advanced materials from suppliers like Corning and SCHOTT to achieve a durable yet flexible glass surface. The device is expected to adopt a book-style form factor, with a cover display measuring approximately 5.4 inches.
Under the hood, the iPhone Fold is rumoured to be powered by Apple’s A20 Pro system-on-chip, paired with 12GB of RAM and an in-house C2 5G modem. Biometric authentication will reportedly rely on Touch ID rather than Face ID, a notable shift from recent iPhone models. Photography capabilities include a dual rear camera setup with a 48MP sensor and an in-display front camera that could reach up to 24MP resolution.
Battery capacity is estimated between 5,400 and 5,800mAh, which should provide ample endurance for a device with such a large foldable screen. The phone’s thickness reduces significantly when unfolded, dropping to just 4.8mm excluding the camera bump, which is slimmer than the 5.64mm thickness of the iPhone Air.
Context and Expectations
These new details build on previous leaks and rumours, painting a clearer picture of Apple’s approach to foldable technology. The company appears to be focusing on a compact yet functional design that balances screen size with portability. The decision to use Touch ID over Face ID may be influenced by the foldable form factor, where facial recognition could be less practical.
The iPhone Fold is expected to launch in the second half of 2026, with a projected price tag around $2,399, positioning it as a premium device in the foldable smartphone market. Reports suggest that Apple will release the phone exclusively as an eSIM variant, and initial shipments could range between 7 million and 9 million units in the first year.
Looking Ahead
As Apple continues to refine its first foldable iPhone, these CAD renders and leaked specifications offer valuable insights into what consumers might expect. The device’s unusual squat design and advanced features could set it apart from competitors, but much will depend on how Apple executes the final product. Fans and industry watchers will be keen to see how the iPhone Fold performs once officially unveiled and whether it can live up to the high expectations surrounding Apple’s entry into the foldable market.