iPhone Fold to Feature Industry First 24MP Under-Display Camera

Apple’s upcoming foray into foldable phones might break new ground with a 24-megapixel under-display camera, according to an equity research report by JP Morgan, shared by MacRumors. This would be a notable advancement in under-display technology, which until now, has struggled to offer high-quality images.

Apple Reportedly Surpasses Under-Display Challenges

While under-display cameras have appeared in several Android models like the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra and Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series, they often feature lower-resolution sensors, typically around 4MP or 8MP. This is due to the difficulty in maintaining image clarity through the layers of the screen. Apple’s choice of a 24MP sensor, enhanced by six plastic lens elements, is said to improve light transmission, producing sharper and more detailed images. Should this be accurate, Apple could be the first to deliver a genuinely practical under-display camera for everyday use.

Compact Design May Lead to Some Omissions

However, the JP Morgan report also highlights that Apple has made design trade-offs to keep its foldable iPhone sleek and compact. Notably, it might omit LiDAR and optical image stabilization, features standard in current iPhone Pro models. Nevertheless, the foldable model is expected to include a dual 48MP rear camera setup along with two front-facing cameras: a visible one on the outer screen (punch-hole) and an under-display one on the inner screen.

For biometric authentication, Touch ID is anticipated to be built into the side button, as Apple opts out of using Face ID this time, likely to conserve space.

Part of a Wider 24MP Camera Upgrade Across iPhone 18 Lineup

The report from JP Morgan also suggests that all the flagship devices in the upcoming iPhone 18 lineup, including the iPhone 18, 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and the second-generation iPhone Air, are set to have 24MP front cameras. This represents an upgrade from the 18MP front cameras rumored for the iPhone 17 line. This enhancement aims to boost performance in portrait mode, improve edge detection, and enhance skin tone accuracy.

Economy models like the iPhone 18e and the 17e will likely retain 12MP cameras to maintain affordability.

Also Read: Apple’s Foldable iPhone May Be Cheaper to Make Than Expected

Launch Timeline Remains Uncertain

The timeline for Apple’s foldable iPhone remains a bit murky, as analyst Mark Gurman anticipates its release in the fall of 2026. However, Mizuho Securities speculates a possible delay into 2027 as Apple finalizes important design details, such as the hinge mechanism.

JP Morgan also hints at a strategic shift for Apple starting in 2026, potentially launching high-end models (including the foldable and iPhone 18 Pro series) in the fall, while releasing standard models like the iPhone 18 and 18e in the spring of 2027.

Should these predictions hold, the foldable iPhone might set new standards for under-display technology and influence Apple’s next wave of mobile innovation.

How do you feel about a foldable iPhone with an under-display camera? Share your thoughts below.