Apple to possibly unveil its first foldable iPhone this week

Apple is expected to introduce its first foldable iPhone on Wednesday, Sept. 9, giving iPhone users across the Pacific Northwest a first look at what could be the device’s biggest design change in nearly two decades.

The New York Times reported that Apple is preparing a smartphone with a flexible display that opens and closes like a book.

The company has not confirmed the foldable iPhone ahead of its annual product event in Cupertino, California.

For PNW shoppers considering their next phone upgrade, price could be one of the biggest details to watch. The foldable model is expected to start at $2,000 or more, considerably higher than Apple’s current premium phones, according to the Times.

Why is a foldable iPhone a big change for Apple?

The basic shape of the iPhone has remained largely recognizable since the first model arrived in 2007. Apple has removed buttons, changed materials, adjusted screen sizes, and introduced thinner models, but the phone has continued to use the familiar rectangular design.

A folding screen would change that. The expected device would give users a larger display when opened while maintaining a smaller footprint when closed.

Apple would also be entering an established but relatively small market.

Foldable phones have been available for years from companies including Samsung, Motorola, and Google, but the devices still account for about 2% of global smartphone sales.

What should Pacific Northwest Apple users watch for?

Wednesday’s announcement should provide a clearer picture of the foldable iPhone’s price, features, durability, and availability.

The event is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. PT, on Sept. 8 at Apple Park.

It will also mark the first major product event since John Ternus became Apple CEO on Sept. 1, succeeding Tim Cook, who moved into the role of executive chairman.

For Oregon and Washington consumers, the bigger question may be whether a folding screen offers enough practical value to justify a price that could reach twice the cost of a conventional iPhone.