Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone may have received an early preview after a functional-looking mock-up of the device appeared online. Canadian tech YouTuber Lewis Hilsenteger, known for his Unbox Therapy channel, recently showcased what appeared to be a Chinese-made mock-up of Apple’s rumoured foldable iPhone. The video has already crossed 2.1 million views, putting the unusual design firmly in the spotlight.
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What does the foldable iPhone mock-up show?
The device features a book-style folding design, broadly similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold range. When opened, it becomes a larger, tablet-like device, while folding shut gives it the proportions of a more conventional smartphone.
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Recent leaks have claimed that Apple’s foldable iPhone could come with a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.8-inch internal screen. The larger display could make the phone more useful for multitasking, browsing and other tasks that benefit from extra screen space. Apple has not officially confirmed the device or these specifications.
Crease remains a key concern
One of the most obvious features of the mock-up is the visible crease running down the middle of the inner display. That could be significant because Apple is reportedly looking at ways to make the crease less noticeable than it is on some existing foldable smartphones. Hilsenteger also suggested that the crease seen on the mock-up may not represent what Apple eventually ships.
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Previous reports have pointed to a liquid-metal hinge being developed for the foldable iPhone. Such a hinge could help Apple reduce the visibility of the crease while also improving the folding mechanism.
Sharp edges divide opinion
The leaked design has already sparked plenty of discussion online. Some viewers have taken issue with the phone’s combination of sharp body edges and rounded corners on the display. The mismatch has been described as awkward-looking, with one Reddit user comparing the design to the uncomfortable sight of a mark left on a whiteboard while it is being wiped clean.
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Others have taken a more humorous approach, with some users calling the rumoured device the “iPhold”. For now, the mock-up should be treated as an early representation rather than a confirmed look at Apple’s final product. Apple has yet to announce a foldable iPhone, leaving plenty of room for the design, hinge and display technology to change before any official launch.
Indrani Priyadarshini is a journalist and editorial professional specialising in technology, artificial intelligence, smart cities, green energy, and digital transformation. With over four years of experience in tech journalism and digital media, she is known for turning complex industry developments into clear, engaging, and insightful stories. Her expertise spans reporting, editorial strategy, digital publishing workflows, and in-depth coverage of emerging technologies shaping the future.
