• Apple is set to launch its first foldable iPhone by 2026, with a 7.8-inch inner display and a price range of $2,000 to $2,500.
• The foldable phone market is growing, and Apple’s entry could boost this trend significantly.
• Apple’s foldable devices, including a possible foldable iPad, aim to replace both iPhones and iPads for many users

Apple has been the only major phone brand without a foldable device. However, rumors about a foldable iPhone are growing. Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-known analyst, has reported that Apple may launch this new device by the end of 2026 or early 2027. This would mark a significant move for the company, which has not yet entered the foldable phone market. The foldable iPhone could be a game changer, bringing new features and a new design to Apple fans.

Price and Features of the Foldable iPhone

Kuo predicts that the foldable iPhone will cost between $2,000 and $2,500. This high price tag may seem steep, but Apple is known for its loyal customer base. Many of Apple’s fans are willing to pay a premium for new, high-quality products. The foldable iPhone is expected to feature a 7.8-inch crease-free inner display, which would be much larger than current iPhones. It will also have a 5.5-inch outer display for quick access to apps and information. This device will likely fold in a book-style design, similar to other foldable phones on the market. While the price is high, Kuo believes there will be strong demand, predicting initial shipments of 3 million to 5 million units. The second generation could sell as many as 20 million units. This shows that Apple’s foldable iPhone could be a big hit with its dedicated fans.

Apple’s Delay in Entering the Foldable Market

Apple has taken its time entering the foldable phone market. Unlike Samsung and other companies, Apple has not yet released a foldable device. The company has reportedly been working on one for several years but has faced some challenges. One of the main obstacles has been the durability of the phone’s hinge and display. Apple wants to make sure its foldable device is reliable and long-lasting before releasing it to the public. This caution has caused delays, but many believe the wait will be worth it. With Apple’s reputation for quality, the company may be working to perfect the design and features of the foldable iPhone.

Growth of the Foldable Phone Market

The foldable phone market is still small but is expected to grow rapidly. As more manufacturers release foldable devices, the market will likely expand. Foldable phones are not as common as regular smartphones, but their popularity is increasing. In 2024, sales of foldable phones reached 19.3 million units. This was a 6.3% increase from 2023, and the market is projected to keep growing. The launch of Apple’s foldable iPhone could help push the market forward, attracting more consumers and boosting sales. The trend may grow even faster if Apple’s entry makes foldable phones more mainstream.

Apple’s Development of a Foldable iPad

In addition to the foldable iPhone, Apple is reportedly working on a foldable iPad. This iPad would have a screen large enough to match two iPad Pros. The current largest iPad is 13 inches, but the new foldable iPad could have a screen that opens wider. When not in use, the screen could fold to make the device easier to carry. This could be a great option for people who want a larger screen for gaming or watching movies but still want a portable device. Apple has not yet confirmed these plans, but the idea of a foldable iPad is exciting. It shows that Apple is thinking about how foldable devices could reshape its product lineup.

Global Sales and Market Trends

Foldable phones are gaining traction in the market. According to IDC, global sales of foldable phones reached 19.3 million units in 2024. While this is still a small portion of the total smartphone market, it shows that foldable devices are starting to gain popularity. Samsung leads the foldable phone market, followed by Huawei, Motorola, and Honor. These phones are typically priced around $1,200, which is much higher than regular smartphones. However, despite their high cost, foldable phones are appealing to people who want something new and innovative. When compared to the 1.4 billion smartphones shipped in 2024, foldable phones still make up a small fraction of the market. However, the growth in this segment indicates that the future of foldable phones looks promising.

Will an Apple Foldable Phone Find a Large Audience?

Experts are unsure whether an Apple foldable iPhone will have a large audience. Ramon Llamas, a research director at IDC, shared his thoughts with CNET. He said that the success of an Apple foldable phone would depend on the price and the device’s use case. If the device offers significant benefits over a regular iPhone or iPad, it could attract more buyers. Llamas also mentioned that an Apple foldable phone could replace both an iPhone and an iPad for many users. If this is true, it could make the device even more appealing. However, much will depend on how Apple markets the phone and whether it meets consumer needs.

The Future of Foldable Phones

Foldable phones are still a niche market, but they are expected to grow rapidly in the next few years. Apple’s potential entry into this market could significantly boost its growth. While it’s unclear how well a foldable iPhone will sell, it’s clear that the technology has a bright future. With its loyal fanbase and innovative designs, Apple could help make foldable phones more mainstream. The market is still young, and much will depend on how Apple and other companies continue to develop foldable devices. It’s an exciting time for smartphone technology, and the foldable phone trend is only beginning.