Apple’s foldable iPhone may have a smaller-than-expected 5.3-inch outer screen, even smaller than the old iPhone mini.
The inner display is tipped to use an iPad-like 4:3 ratio, focusing more on use when the phone is unfolded.
Apple may treat the outer screen as secondary, with the foldable expected to launch around 2026 or later.
Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone is already stirring debate, even though it remains years away from launch. Recent reports suggest the device could feature a surprisingly small 5.3-inch outer display, smaller than most modern smartphones and even Apple’s discontinued iPhone mini. Concept images based on these dimensions have fuelled discussion, particularly when compared with rival foldables that prioritise larger cover screens. However, the recent leaks suggest that Apple may follow a completely different approach, as the latest rumours point towards an iPad-like 4:3 inner display. It looks like the company may be designing the foldable primarily for unfolded use, treating the outer screen as a secondary convenience.
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If recent reports are to be believed, then Apple’s upcoming rumoured iPhone foldable is expected to feature a 5.3-inch outer display. This would make it smaller than many current smartphones and even more compact than the iPhone mini models, which were discontinued in 2022. To visualise the size, well-known concept creator Ben Geskin (@BenGeskin) shared photos and videos of a printed mock-up based on these dimensions. The mock-up quickly generated online discussion, largely because the outer display appears noticeably smaller than those found on rival foldable devices.
Printed a passport-style foldable phone to see how comfortable this form factor is in real life.
— Ben Geskin (@BenGeskin) December 18, 2025
5.3-inch cover display
7.7-inch main display pic.twitter.com/5ae58Bc2Cq
Reports also suggest that Apple could adopt a 4:3 aspect ratio for the inner display, which is similar to the iPad. This format is generally considered better suited for reading, video playback, and multitasking with split-screen apps. By contrast, a taller outer display would result in a more square inner screen, which may be less practical for everyday use. As a result, keeping the outer screen compact could allow Apple to focus more on optimising the unfolded experience, which is expected to be the device’s primary appeal.
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Apple is anticipated to treat the folded state as a secondary mode, unlike other foldable phones that are designed to be fully used even when closed. The outer screen could be meant mainly for checking notifications, replying to messages, or handling quick actions. However, for prolonged use, Apple expects users to open the device and enjoy the larger screen inside.
Hand-on with a mockup. I actually like this. pic.twitter.com/iGJWvEB8s3
— Ben Geskin (@BenGeskin) December 18, 2025
This design approach becomes particularly noteworthy when considering the expected pricing. The foldable iPhone is rumoured to cost between $2,000 and $2,500, potentially making it the most expensive iPhone Apple has ever released. At that price point, the small outer display may raise questions for some consumers. Nevertheless, Apple appears to be positioning the device not as a large smartphone, but as a compact tablet that can fold down to fit in a pocket.
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While the company has not yet announced anything about the iPhone, the early reports suggest that the device may make its debut in fall 2026. However, analysts like Mizuho Securities warn that a push to 2027 remains possible as Apple finalises key design decisions.
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Bhaskar Sharma
Bhaskar is a senior copy editor at Digit India, where he simplifies complex tech topics across iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and emerging consumer tech. His work has appeared in iGeeksBlog, GuidingTech, and other publications, and he previously served as an assistant editor at TechBloat and TechReloaded. A B.Tech graduate and full-time tech writer, he is known for clear, practical guides and explainers. View Full Profile
