Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone may land with a hefty price tag that pushes it into ultra-premium territory.

Multiple new analyst reports suggest the device, expected to launch as the iPhone Fold, could cost around US$2,399, or roughly A$3,700, making it the most expensive foldable on the market.

The estimate comes from Fubon Research analyst Arthur Liao, who says Apple’s component choices are driving the price higher than early predictions.

Earlier speculation had placed the device between US$1,800 and US$2,100. Liao now believes the iPhone Fold’s advanced OLED panel, lightweight internals and liquid-metal hinge tech will push it to the upper end of expectations, with RAM and component costs rising sharply across the industry.

Apple is reportedly using a completely new hinge mechanism and a high-end display supplied by Samsung but designed and laminated according to Apple’s own specifications.

Supply-chain sources quoted in Chinese publication UDN claim Apple, NewRixing and Amphenol have made “breakthroughs” enabling a crease-free design – an achievement no rival has yet delivered.

The device has reportedly moved into pre-mass-production phases, with a launch tipped for September 2026.

If accurate, Apple’s foldable would outprice all current competitors. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 starts at A$2,899, while Google’s Pixel 10 Pro Fold starts at A$2,699.

Even so, analysts expect strong demand, predicting Apple could ship more than 5 million units in 2026.

Rumours suggest the iPhone Fold will open to a display similar in size to an iPad mini, feature dual front cameras and a dual-lens rear setup, and potentially mark the return of Touch ID. It’s also expected to be eSIM-only.