Apple iPhone Fold Rumors Suggest eSIM-Only Design With No Physical SIM Tray for 2026 Launch

Apple’s venture into foldable smartphones is generating renewed excitement, with fresh leaks hinting at bold design decisions. The much-anticipated iPhone Fold could go a long way by removing the physical SIM tray and basing its functioning on eSIM technology only. This action fits into the bigger picture of Apple concerning a SIM-free future, though it also brings up concerns regarding human adaptation in specific areas.

iPhone Fold Could Drop the Physical SIM Tray

Chinese tipster Instant Digital says that the iPhone Fold is highly likely to not have a SIM card slot, so it would rely solely on eSIM activation. Though eSIMs are well supported in most markets, certain areas such as in China might take time to adopt it. India, in turn, already includes leading operators of Jio, Airtel and Vi, and their eSIM services have been available to users since they can change without going to the store. The trend that Apple is making towards an entirely digital SIM system appears to be on track with this new device.

Display

According to leaks, the iPhone Fold will have a 5.5-inch screen on the outside and a bigger screen of 7.8 foldable on the inside. The crease of the main panel, which is one of the major foldable issues, could have been resolved, and it can potentially provide a smooth-looking inner screen without dips. The phone is also likely to operate on the Apple A20 Pro chip which is based on the 2-nanometre process and is based on TSMC. This technology would provide significant improvements in speed and energy efficiency. The device can also use a new silicon-carbon battery, which will have increased capacity but without an increase in size.

Design and Camera

The foldable is reported to be approximately as thin as two iPhone Airs on top of each other, which does not make it feel fragile. In the imaging department, Apple can launch a 24-megapixel front camera with an under display, it will be able to offer flagship-like self-images without losing the smoothness of the screen. The combination of design and high-end camera technology underscores the desire of Apple to reinvent the foldable segment.

Anticipated Launch

Although a release is not expected until late 2026, ongoing reports suggest Apple is steadily progressing with the iPhone Fold. The eSIM-only approach may set a precedent for future Apple devices, blending cutting-edge hardware with a forward-looking connectivity strategy.