iPhone Fold from our 3D printer: First hands-on with the foldable

For upcoming smartphones, producers of accessories such as cables or cases are usually the first to receive concrete data from the manufacturer – even before press representatives, super fans or the general public find out about it. Especially when this upcoming smartphone opens up a completely new category. This may also be the case with the foldable iPhone.

After all, the rumor mill has been certain for a long time: that iPhone Fold will be released this fall. The case manufacturers are said to have already received official information about this, which of course was leaked in advance. The big advantage: 3D printing enthusiasts have created a model of the alleged iPhone Fold based on this and are offering it for download online. We have worked on this Project by Makerworld user Mr_byrm oriented and the “mockup” of the iPhone Fold was printed out in the CHIP test center.

iPhone Fold: This is what the foldable Apple cell phone should look like

The printed model is based on current rumors about the iPhone Fold. When closed, it should offer a 5.5-inch external display that is significantly more square than you would expect from a modern smartphone. At the same time, it is significantly wider and less high than usual there.

Although this concept may seem unusual at first glance, it feels… form feels really good in our hands. The exterior, similar to the old 4:3 television format, could be ideally used for chats, menus and text-based social media. However, for short films, especially in portrait format, users would probably have to accept black bars.

However, it is quite possible that app programmers have the appropriate information here design-Make adjustments so that Reels, TikToks and Co. don’t look completely out of place. Is the publication more appropriate? Instagram iPad apps and WhatsApp perhaps already a preparation for what is to come?

Back to what we can actually grab: the 3D model. There are two cameras on the back and that’s already from the iPhone 17 Pro (test) Well-known double design with a wide camera island and a lighter back surface. The thickness of around 9.5 millimeters would be a little more than one Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 (test)but in practice it doesn’t seem much different than a normal cell phone. Due to the 3D printing materials without technology, we are not yet able to get an idea of ​​the weight. With the iPhone Air (test) But Apple has already proven that thin, light smartphones are possible. Albeit with significant drawbacks.

The approximately 7.6 inches tall Interior display is reportedly from Samsung. The special feature is a completely seamless interior without any noticeable creases. On the CES 2026 in Las Vegas This concept has already been admired at “Samsung Displays” – although without reference to the iPhone Fold.

Unfortunately, in our 3D printing, the display is not possible without a thick folding hinge for technical reasons. So all we have left is this Size to judge the inside. Although slightly smaller than its competitors, the width helps with a comfortable grip. When folded, the shape is vaguely reminiscent of a larger Nintendo DS or a calculator. The main switch on the side will be equipped with TouchID, according to the rumor mill.