Apple Prepares Foldable IPhone As IPhone 12 Drops

Apple’s iPhone lineup is once again in the spotlight as 2025 draws to a close, with the company’s present, past, and future devices all making headlines for very different reasons. From rumors swirling around the highly anticipated foldable iPhone, to significant price drops on older models like the iPhone 12, and whispers of a technological leap in chip packaging for the iPhone 18, the tech giant appears to be setting the stage for a dynamic few years ahead.

According to a new report from The Information published on December 17, 2025, Apple’s first foldable iPhone—dubbed by many as the “iPhone Fold”—may surprise consumers with its compact exterior. The outer display is expected to measure just 5.3 inches, which is even smaller than the 5.4-inch screen found on the discontinued iPhone mini. That’s a bold move, considering that the iPhone mini line was retired in 2022 due to lackluster sales. The report’s sources suggest that the foldable will also feature a 7.7-inch inner display, slightly smaller than earlier predictions of 7.8 inches, and a 5.3-inch outer display rather than the previously rumored 5.5 inches. These details, while possibly still in flux, are fueling discussion about Apple’s product strategy and how the company envisions users interacting with its next-generation device.

When compared to competitors, the iPhone Fold’s petite front display stands out. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 boasts a 6.5-inch front panel, while Google’s Pixel Pro Fold comes in at 6.3 inches. Apple’s foldable, in contrast, would be smaller than almost all major foldables currently on the market. This suggests that Apple may not view the folded state as a full-fledged smartphone experience. Instead, the company could be positioning the closed device for quick interactions—checking notifications, sending brief replies, or glancing at information—while reserving the full productivity experience for when the device is unfolded, much like a mini iPad. As The Information observes, “software has limits,” and there’s only so much interface magic that can compensate for a physically smaller screen, especially on a device rumored to cost between $2,000 and $2,500.

Of course, Apple has a history of bucking market conventions in favor of its own design philosophies. Whether consumers will embrace a premium foldable with such a compact exterior display remains to be seen, especially given the tepid response to the iPhone mini. But with a projected launch date in September 2026, there’s still time for the company to tweak its approach—or for public opinion to shift.

While the tech world speculates about the future, the present is shaped by the enduring relevance of Apple’s older devices. The iPhone 12, for instance, has undergone a dramatic price drop in 2025, with prices now ranging from $220 to $485 depending on the device’s condition and connectivity features. As reported by Qoo10 Indonesia on December 18, 2025, variants with eSIM and WiFi-only support are the most affordable, while official iBox Indonesia units—prized for their reliable signal—command a higher price. This broad price range reflects a diverse set of user needs and purchasing preferences, prompting many to ask: is the iPhone 12 still a good buy?

Despite being several years old, the iPhone 12’s design remains strikingly current. Its flat-edged frame and boxy camera module have proven timeless, and at 164 grams, it’s lightweight and comfortable for extended use. The 6.1-inch display hits a sweet spot for many users, offering enough real estate for media consumption without sacrificing one-handed usability. While the 60Hz refresh rate may seem modest compared to newer Android phones boasting 90Hz or 120Hz panels, Apple’s iOS optimizations ensure that scrolling and navigation stay smooth and responsive.

Performance-wise, the iPhone 12 continues to hold its own in 2025. Powered by the Apple A14 Bionic chip and 4GB of RAM, it supports popular games like Mobile Legends at ultra settings, albeit capped at 60 frames per second due to the screen’s limitations. The device’s efficient memory management means multitasking remains fluid, and its performance once outpaced even the Snapdragon 888, a flagship chip from the same era.

Flagship features abound, despite the iPhone 12’s age. Users get IP68 water resistance, Apple Pay, stereo speakers, NFC, Face ID, a gyroscope, and wireless charging. However, it does lack some newer conveniences, such as an always-on display and USB-C connectivity, sticking with the familiar Lightning port. These omissions are reminders of the device’s generation, but they don’t significantly detract from its day-to-day utility for most users.

Photography enthusiasts will find the dual 12MP rear cameras—one with optical image stabilization and the other ultra-wide—still deliver excellent results, with the signature iPhone warmth and natural color reproduction. Video capabilities remain impressive as well, with support for 4K recording at 60fps on both the front and rear cameras. To top it off, software updates are expected to continue until 2026 or even 2027, making the iPhone 12 a compelling entry point into the Apple ecosystem for budget-conscious buyers.

Looking ahead, Apple’s ambitions for the iPhone 18 series are already generating buzz in the industry, especially regarding a potential leap in chip packaging technology. As reported by Wccftech and highlighted by 9to5Mac on December 18, 2025, Apple is rumored to be shifting from InFO (Integrated Fan-Out) packaging to WMCM (Wafer-level Multi-Chip Module) for its upcoming A20 and A20 Pro chips. This change is expected to bring a substantial improvement in heat dissipation, a crucial factor for sustained performance in gaming and AI workloads.

WMCM packaging, as explained by 9to5Mac, allows for components like the system-on-chip (SoC) and DRAM to be integrated at the wafer level before being separated into individual chips. This integration enhances both thermal efficiency and signal integrity, potentially allowing Apple to push the envelope on performance while keeping devices cool and reliable. The move is being supported by TSMC’s AP7 site in Chiayi, Taiwan, which will serve as a WMCM production base dedicated to Apple, according to MoneyDJ.

Beyond the packaging shift, the A20 and A20 Pro chips are expected to be manufactured using TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm process. This combination of advanced manufacturing and packaging could result in “stronger sustained performance in extended gaming and AI workloads,” as TechNews puts it. Wccftech further notes that the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to retain vapor-chamber cooling systems, a feature that may also make its way to the iPhone Fold. Notably, the A19 Pro chip already outperforms Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, even when the latter is paired with REDMAGIC’s advanced liquid-cooling and fan systems.

As Apple looks to the future with bold new designs and cutting-edge technology, it’s clear that the company is determined to offer something for everyone—from those seeking the latest innovations to budget-minded users looking for reliable classics. Whether it’s a compact foldable, a proven workhorse like the iPhone 12, or a next-generation powerhouse in the iPhone 18, the Apple ecosystem continues to evolve, promising both excitement and stability for its vast user base.