Rumors circulating from Chinese tech blogs suggest Apple is preparing a significant overhaul of its first foldable iPhone, focusing on a dramatically larger battery and redesigned physical controls. The leaks, reported by 9to5Mac this week, point toward a device that could address key shortcomings of current foldable phones.
Larger Battery Capacity
Apple is reportedly testing a 5,500 mAh battery for the iPhone Fold. This would be a substantial leap from the 5,088 mAh cell expected in the iPhone 17 Pro Max, marking the largest battery Apple has ever included in a smartphone.
The increased capacity is likely due to the power demands of a foldable form factor. Larger internal displays require more energy, and early foldable devices have often suffered from poor battery life. Apple appears to be prioritizing this weakness, potentially positioning battery endurance as a key feature.
Ergonomic Design Tweaks
Beyond the battery, leaked details indicate Apple is refining the physical design. Volume buttons may be moved higher on the device to improve usability when unfolded. Current foldable designs often place traditional buttons in awkward positions when the phone is opened, making them difficult to reach.
The leaks also mention updates to camera hardware, hinge mechanisms, and overall chassis durability, suggesting Apple is addressing concerns around long-term reliability. These refinements are crucial for foldable phones, which have faced scrutiny for their fragility compared to standard smartphones.
Development Status
While Apple has not confirmed the iPhone Fold publicly, the growing frequency of leaks suggests the device is in late-stage development. If these rumors prove accurate, Apple’s first foldable could arrive with fewer compromises than early models from competitors.
The iPhone Fold’s success will depend on how well Apple solves the issues that plague existing foldable devices. A larger battery and improved ergonomics could make it a more compelling product for mainstream consumers.
