The tech world is abuzz with rumors that Apple’s much-anticipated foldable iPhone will be powered by the same 2nm chip as the iPhone 18 Pro. This revelation, coming from a reliable source known as Mobile Phone Chip Expert, has sparked mixed reactions among tech enthusiasts and potential buyers.
Apple’s strategy to equip its high-end devices with a unified chipset is not new. The iPhone 18 series, expected to launch in the second half of 2026, will reportedly feature the standard A20 chipset for its base models, while the Pro versions, including the foldable variant, will boast the A20 Pro chip. This approach aligns with Apple’s historical pattern of maintaining consistency across its flagship devices.
Apple’s Chip Strategy: A Consistent Approach
The decision to use the same chip across different models is consistent with industry trends. Smartphone manufacturers typically equip their foldable devices with the same processors found in their conventional flagships. However, Apple’s decision might surprise some, given its history of designing separate chips for its tablets.
“It may come as a shock for some customers to hear that the iPhone 18 Pro and the first iPhone foldable will get the same chipset.”
Despite this, the A20 Pro chip, manufactured using Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s 2nm process, promises significant performance and efficiency improvements over the current 3nm technology. This shift represents a full node advancement, which is expected to enhance the overall user experience.
Technological Advancements and Expectations
Apple’s transition from Integrated Fan-Out (InFO) packaging to Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM) technology is another noteworthy development. This change could integrate RAM directly onto the same wafer as the CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine, potentially resulting in faster performance and improved power efficiency.
While some consumers may have anticipated a more advanced chip for the foldable iPhone, experts suggest that the A20 Pro will be sufficiently powerful. The chipset’s capabilities are expected to support the foldable device’s unique design and functionality, ensuring it performs on par with the iPhone 18 Pro.
Market Implications and Future Prospects
The announcement comes as Apple continues to innovate within the competitive smartphone market. The introduction of a foldable iPhone marks a significant milestone for the company, aligning with the broader industry trend towards foldable technology. However, the decision to use the same chip across different models may influence consumer perceptions and purchasing decisions.
Looking ahead, Apple’s strategy may set a precedent for future device launches. As the company prepares to unveil the iPhone 18 lineup in 2026, followed by other models in 2027, the tech giant’s approach to chipset uniformity will likely be scrutinized by both industry analysts and consumers.
“The iPhone Fold, or whatever it ends up being called, should perform well with this chipset.”
Meanwhile, as Apple enthusiasts eagerly await the release of the foldable iPhone, the tech community remains divided on the implications of this chipset decision. Whether this move will ultimately satisfy consumer expectations or prompt further innovation remains to be seen.
