Illustration of a sleek foldable iPhone, highlighting apple's 2 000 foldable design concept in a tech setting.

Apple’s $2,000 Foldable iPhone May Drop Zoom Lens to Achieve Ultra-Thin Design

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Written by Flynn Matthews

2026-08-12

Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone, referred to as “apple’s 2 000,” promises to be its priciest yet, expected to start north of $1,999. Recent leaks suggest it could also feature a design without a telephoto lens. Hints from the design show camera covers available in silver and midnight blue, featuring a compact module with cutouts for two lenses, a flash, and a LiDAR scanner. All this must fit into a device that reportedly measures under 5mm thick when unfolded.

Rumor has it that Apple is opting to omit the telephoto lens to accommodate its sleek design. The volume buttons have reportedly been moved to the top edge, similar to an iPad mini, to maximize space on this innovative device.

Close-up of a foldable iPhone screen displaying vibrant app icons.

Foldable iPhone: Leak Details and Component Insights

The camera covers were revealed by leaker “Sonny Dickson,” showcasing protective covers for the phone’s pill-shaped camera housing. While these are third-party accessories, they align with existing rumors about a two-tone finish reminiscent of the iPhone 17 Pro’s metal and glass design. Earlier leaks from Jukanlosreve also support the absence of a telephoto lens.

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With starting prices rumored above $1,999, this potential downgrading in optics starkly contrasts the new model with Apple’s Pro-tier iPhone lineup. It emphasizes how leaks capture the intrigue and contradictions in pre-launch speculation.

Side view of a folded iPhone showcasing its ultra-thin profile.

Design Challenges and Speculation on the Foldable

Weibo leaker Instant Digital had earlier predicted the top-edge volume button placement, which was later confirmed by case maker iFunSmart. There’s also no Action Button, a mainstay since the iPhone 15. This reflects a meticulous use of every millimeter of internal space in the device’s design.

The phone’s specs include a speculated 5,700mAh battery and a liquid metal hinge designed to eliminate visible creases. A titanium frame and A20 Pro chip built on a 2nm process highlight its cutting-edge engineering. However, the absence of a zoom lens remains a notable trade-off in achieving slimness and battery longevity.

For a look at another device shaking up traditional designs, check out the Audi ZERØ’s revolutionary approach to electric vehicles.

Foldable iPhone lying open on a desk beside a stylus and notebook.

With Apple expected to officially unveil the foldable phone in mid-September, these leaks set the stage for what could be a revolutionary, albeit controversial, addition to their lineup. The question remains: how will consumers react to a flagship device that prioritizes design over camera versatility?

Source: yankodesign.com

Frequently asked questions

Why might the foldable iPhone not have a zoom lens?

Apple is reportedly omitting the telephoto lens to achieve a sleek design for its foldable iPhone, which measures under 5mm thick when unfolded.

Where are the volume buttons on the foldable iPhone?

The volume buttons have reportedly been moved to the top edge of the foldable iPhone, similar to an iPad mini, to maximize space.

What materials and design features does the foldable iPhone include?

The foldable iPhone is speculated to have a titanium frame and a liquid metal hinge, with a compact camera module set in a device under 5mm thick.