Apple is gearing up to launch three new iPhone models next September: the iPhone 18 Pro, the iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the highly anticipated first-generation foldable iPhone. Interestingly, the lineup will not include the standard iPhone 18 or an iPhone Air 2. Sources indicate that the iPhone 18 and an updated Air model might debut in spring 2027, although Apple could delay the Air’s release. The foldable iPhone, however, is widely expected to arrive next year, supported by a growing number of credible leaks.
One of the latest insights comes from renowned Korean leaker yeux1122, who reveals that Apple is testing a significantly large battery for the foldable iPhone. Reportedly, the battery capacity under consideration ranges from 5,400 to 5,800 mAh. This information reportedly comes directly from Apple’s supply chain—a source that previously accurately predicted the battery size of the iPhone Air, which turned out to be 3,149 mAh, close to the earlier rumor of 2,800 to 3,000 mAh.
For context, the eSIM-only iPhone 17 Pro Max sports a 5,088 mAh battery, so a boost to between 5,400 and 5,800 mAh for the foldable iPhone seems reasonable. The device is expected to feature two battery halves—one in each section of the foldable design. If the phone’s overall dimensions are roughly equivalent to two iPhone Airs placed side by side, such a battery capacity would be fitting.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has speculated that Apple designed the iPhone Air as a way to prepare its supply chain for the foldable iPhone, with the latter sharing many components with the Air model. Notably, inside the iPhone Air, the battery occupies most of the phone’s internal space, with the logic board positioned at the top beneath the camera module.
How the iPhone Fold Compares to Competitors
The battery claims for Apple’s foldable iPhone are impressive when compared to its major competitors. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, for example, has a 4,400 mAh battery—a size Samsung has maintained for several years. Meanwhile, the Honor Magic V5’s battery varies by region, boasting 5,820 mAh in Europe and 6,100 mAh in China, with Honor utilizing silicon-carbon battery technology in some foldables. Huawei’s Mate X6 comes with a 5,110 mAh battery, the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold has a 5,015 mAh battery, and the Vivo X Fold5 features a 6,000 mAh silicon-anode battery.
If the leaks are accurate, Apple is aiming for battery capacities that would position the iPhone Fold alongside standard iPhones in terms of battery life. Combined with the power efficiency improvements expected from the new A20 chip and iOS 27, the foldable iPhone could deliver exceptional battery performance. The Korean leaker also suggests Apple might prioritize battery life over device weight and thickness, potentially debunking recent rumors that the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be thicker and heavier than its predecessor. Apple could be experimenting with thicker designs for both the iPhone Air 2 and the foldable iPhone to accommodate larger batteries.
Potential Battery Technology and Market Implications
It remains unclear whether Apple will incorporate any novel battery technologies similar to advancements seen among Chinese manufacturers. Battery specifications for the next Galaxy Z Fold 8 model have yet to leak, but Samsung is reportedly focused on upgrading the Galaxy Z Flip 8 in anticipation of Apple’s foldable iPhone launch. A significant battery enhancement for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 would suggest Samsung is preparing for strong competition from Apple’s foldable handset.
