Apple iPhone Fold Leak Suggests eSIM-Only Design Ahead Of 2026 Launch

Apple’s foldable iPhone has surfaced in leaks yet again, this time hinting at a change in its hardware. The latest report suggests that the iPhone Fold could drop the physical SIM card slot altogether and depend only on eSIM support. If this happens, it would be in line with Apple’s recent shift towards eSIM-only iPhones in several markets. Also Read: Apple, Google, Samsung Push Back Against Mandatory Location Tracking In India

The claim comes from Chinese tipster Instant Digital, who shared on Weibo that the iPhone Fold is “likely to support only eSIM.” While Apple has already removed the SIM tray from iPhones sold in the US, this move could be more noticeable with a premium foldable device expected to launch globally. Also Read: Always-On Phone Tracking? Apple, Google, Samsung Raises Red Flags

What an eSIM-Only iPhone Fold Means for India

For buyers in India, this change is unlikely to cause major issues. Telecom operators including Jio, Airtel, and Vi already offer eSIM support, and activating a connection can be done digitally in most cases. Also Read: Apple Reveals 17 Winners Of The 2025 App Store Awards For iPhone, iPad, Mac, Vision Pro: Full List Inside

Apple is also expected to make eSIM the default option worldwide with future iPhone generations. By the time the iPhone Fold launches, many Indian users may already be familiar with using and managing eSIMs. However, those who regularly switch SIM cards or rely on a physical SIM while travelling could need some time to get used to the change.

Removing the SIM tray would free up internal space, which Apple could use for a larger battery, a sturdier internal structure, or improved heat management – all of which matter for a foldable device.

iPhone Fold Key Specifications Tipped

Apart from the eSIM change, leaks suggest the iPhone Fold will feature a 5.5-inch cover screen and a 7.8-inch inner foldable display. Apple is reportedly working to minimise or eliminate the display crease, a common issue on current foldable phones.

The device is expected to be powered by Apple’s next-generation A20 Pro chip, built on a 2nm manufacturing process. The iPhone Fold is also said to feature a silicon-carbon battery that may allow Apple to offer better battery capacity without making the device thicker. On the camera front, Apple is tipped to introduce an under-display selfie camera for a cleaner look.

The iPhone Fold is expected to debut sometime in 2026 and is likely to sit at the top end of Apple’s pricing range.