Apple is reportedly planning to release a foldable device as early as 2026.

According to foreign media outlets such as The Information, Apple is developing a foldable iPhone codenamed 'V68'. It was reported that Apple recently contacted major Asian suppliers to assess the feasibility of sourcing components for the new device.

The design of the upcoming foldable iPhone is expected to be similar to Samsung Electronics' Z Flip series. It is predicted that a price increase for the new device is inevitable.

Apple is reported to have found a solution to eliminate the crease in the 'hinge' where the screen folds. Apple obtained a patent for a foldable device last February.

However, there are also predictions that the hardware update will not be as innovative as the new device design.

The industry assesses that while Apple has previously showcased the silhouette of a 'foldable' smartphone, it lags far behind competitors such as Samsung Electronics.

Meanwhile, predictions are emerging that Apple, having partnered with OpenAI, will release some AI features, including ChatGPT integration, on iOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and iPadOS 18 starting this fall. Apple is expected to unveil its generative AI, 'Apple Intelligence,' to beta testers for AI developers.

If the foldable iPhone is released as scheduled in 2026, it is highly likely to be equipped with AI features.

While Samsung Electronics has solidified its position as a powerhouse in the foldable smartphone market with the recent launch of the Galaxy Z Flip and Fold 6 equipped with on-device AI, Apple is closely chasing the company in the foldable market, following its lead in AI.