Apple Reportedly Boosting Battery Size for First Foldable iPhone

A new report suggests Apple is putting battery life at the top of its priority list for its first foldable iPhone, with prototypes currently testing large-capacity cells in the 5,400mAh to 5,800mAh range. The information comes from supply-chain sources cited by leaker yeux1122 on Naver, who has previously shared accurate battery capacity details during development of the iPhone Air. If Apple finalizes a battery anywhere in this range, it would mark the largest battery ever used in an iPhone, surpassing even the 5,088mAh cell in the current iPhone 17 Pro Max. Leaning Toward Bigger Batteries Over Thin Designs The report indicates that Apple may be willing to accept a slightly thicker chassis for its foldable, prioritizing endurance over ultra-slim aesthetics. Earlier rumors painted Apple’s foldable as a sleek, thin design showcase, but it appears the company is taking a more practical approach as internal layouts take shape. This development mirrors early iPhone Air prototypes, which initially tested lower battery sizes before increasing capacity late in the process. That trend, combined with reported activity at major component suppliers, strongly suggests that long battery life is a central design goal for the new foldable. No Major Weight Increase Expected for iPhone 18 Pro Max The same source also pushed back against recent speculation claiming the iPhone 18 Pro Max will become noticeably heavier. According to the report, the Pro Max’s dimensions are mostly finalized and unlikely to change significantly. Any increases in thickness or weight are more probable in next-generation models such as the upgraded iPhone Air or the upcoming foldable, where Apple is still refining component layouts. Suppliers Preparing for a 2026 Launch Multiple suppliers have reportedly begun stocking components for Apple’s foldable device, signaling that development has moved into the later stages of preparation. The foldable is expected to debut in late 2026, aligning with what is shaping up to be one of Apple’s biggest hardware refresh cycles in years. A Strategic Move for Apple’s Foldable Entry If accurate, Apple’s approach suggests the company wants its first foldable iPhone to solve one of the most common complaints about foldable devices today: poor battery life. By aiming for a significantly larger battery, Apple may be looking to ensure its foldable feels like a reliable, all-day device rather than a compromise. With suppliers gearing up and design decisions narrowing, Apple’s first foldable iPhone appears to be moving steadily toward launch. As the timeline tightens, more details about durability, hinge design, display specs, and form factor will likely emerge throughout 2025 and early 2026.