Apple Foldable iPhone Rumors: No SIM Slot, Big Screens, A20 Chip

According to fresh leaks from China, Apple is planning to launch its first foldable iPhone and probably do away with the conventional SIM card slot altogether, opting for eSIM-only functionality instead. This step would be similar to the one taken by Apple with the iPhone 17 Air where physical SIM cards were not supported in certain regions, thus indicating a stronger movement towards a universal eSIM ecosystem.

The Chinese technology tipster Instant Digital has shared on Weibo that the iPhone Fold, which is to come, could remove the physical SIM tray completely and that eSIM will be the only way to activate the phone. Although eSIM is a feature that is utilized by a lot of carriers around the globe, very few users in China have taken it, which might impact the convenience of the users. On the other hand, in India, the major telecom providers Jio, Airtel, and Vi have already made eSIM support available.

There are talks around the industry that the foldable will be able to present a 5.5-inch cover display as well as an even larger internal display of 7.8 inches. Apple is said to be trying to reduce the line that is often seen in foldable screens. A20 Pro chip which is built on TSMC’s 2-nanometer process along with a silicon-carbon battery promising to be more efficient will be powering the device.

Camera gossip suggests an under-display front sensor of 24MP, while some early design reports say the thickness of the phone might be equivalent to two iPhone Airs stacked.

The iPhone Fold is expected to take as the iPhone 18 Fold in late 2026. Continuous leaks and activity in development aren't just Apple's product category making the strategy for eSIM-only future devices even stronger. According to the analysts, this might quicken the global eSIM adoption, especially in areas where the use of physical SIMs is still prevalent.