Is Apple closer to launching a foldable iPhone? This analyst thinks so
Apple may finally be entering the foldable phone market — and the tech world is paying close attention. After years of speculation, multiple credible reports now suggest that the Cupertino giant is preparing to launch its first foldable iPhone by 2026. The decision marks a significant shift in Apple’s product strategy, particularly given the company’s traditional “wait and perfect” approach to adopting new hardware trends.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
Foldable smartphones have existed since 2019, with Samsung, Huawei, and Motorola leading the innovation curve. But despite their early adoption, these devices have struggled with durability, screen creasing, high prices, and limited app optimization. Apple, known for its obsession with design quality and long-term usability, has taken a slower approach — perhaps deliberately — to watch how the market unfolds.
According to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is likely to begin production of its foldable iPhone in late 2025, with a tentative launch in 2026. This timeline coincides with Apple’s traditional product cycle, suggesting the device could debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro.
Expected Features and Design
Leaked reports hint at a book-style foldable phone, featuring a 7.8-inch internal display and a 5.5-inch external screen. If true, this would place Apple’s foldable in direct competition with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series and Google’s Pixel Fold.
Several rumors suggest Apple is working with Samsung Display for a crease-free panel and Foxconn for production. Additionally, the hinge mechanism — a critical component of any foldable — is reportedly under heavy development to ensure durability and smooth operation.
Materials like titanium or stainless steel may be used to strengthen the device’s frame while keeping it sleek and premium. However, Apple hasn’t officially confirmed any of these details.
Premium Pricing Likely
The foldable iPhone is expected to come with a steep price tag. Some industry insiders suggest pricing could start at $2,300 or higher, making it the most expensive iPhone ever. While this could limit its adoption in the early stages, Apple may be aiming for a niche market — tech enthusiasts, early adopters, and premium users looking for something entirely new.
It’s worth noting that Apple has previously set new price thresholds with its products. The iPhone X, launched at $999 in 2017, was criticized for its cost but ultimately became a best-seller. The same logic may apply here — premium design, brand trust, and exclusive features could drive early demand despite the high price.
A New Release Strategy?
There’s growing speculation that Apple may stagger its 2026 iPhone releases to give the foldable device more visibility. That means the foldable iPhone could launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, with the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Air coming in spring 2027.
If true, this would be a notable deviation from Apple’s traditional September launch window for all new models. The staggered release might also help Apple focus marketing attention on the foldable iPhone and minimize internal competition within its own lineup.
What Sets Apple Apart?
Apple’s entry into the foldable market isn’t just about catching up. The company is known for reshaping existing technology in ways that appeal to mainstream consumers. Consider how the Apple Watch became the best-selling smartwatch or how AirPods revolutionized wireless audio.
For the foldable iPhone, Apple is reportedly focusing on:
- User interface optimization: Adapting iOS to offer seamless multitasking, split-screen support, and gesture controls for foldable screens.
- App ecosystem readiness: Encouraging developers to create foldable-friendly apps through early access to software kits.
- Durability assurance: Using premium materials and hinge engineering to avoid issues like screen creasing or breakdowns seen in early foldables.
Apple is likely to emphasize usability, ecosystem integration, and privacy features, combining them with innovations in display and hardware design.
Risks Involved
Despite the buzz, there are significant risks for Apple:
- Market maturity: Foldables are still a small segment of the global smartphone market. If Apple overestimates demand, it could face underwhelming sales.
- High production cost: The premium materials and advanced engineering needed for foldables mean low initial profit margins.
- Durability doubts: Even the best foldables today struggle with long-term use. Apple’s brand is built on reliability, so any flaws could damage its image.
A Glimpse Into Apple’s Future?
If the foldable iPhone succeeds, it could open the door to a broader category of hybrid Apple devices — imagine a foldable iPad mini, MacBook with flexible display, or even wearables with dynamic screens.
It may also influence how Apple designs future versions of iOS, iPadOS, and even visionOS (for Apple Vision Pro). A foldable device would force Apple to rethink app layouts, multitasking, and user input methods — all of which could shape the company’s roadmap for years.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s long-awaited entry into the foldable phone market signals more than just a new iPhone design — it’s a potential reimagining of the smartphone experience. While competitors like Samsung and Google have years of head-start, Apple’s careful timing could allow it to leapfrog the early challenges and offer a more refined product.
Still, with a price point north of $2,000 and a largely untested foldable market, Apple will be betting on innovation, design excellence, and its fiercely loyal user base.
Whether the foldable iPhone becomes a game-changer or a luxury experiment remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Apple is preparing to fold its way into the future.
