Apple is reportedly poised to shake up the foldable smartphone market with the introduction of its first foldable iPhone. This strategic move is anticipated by analysts to inject new life into a category that has recently experienced a slowdown. Despite a decline in global foldable smartphone shipments by 8% year-over-year in the first half of 2026, market experts predict a rebound in the latter half. Projections for the entire year suggest shipments could hit approximately 23 million units, with growth expected to persist into 2027.
Analysts foresee Apple capturing a significant portion of the foldable market shortly after releasing its inaugural foldable device. According to Smart Analytics Global, Apple could command 25% of global foldable shipments by the close of 2026, potentially climbing to 41% in 2027. However, the launch may initially be hampered by supply constraints due to the complexities of manufacturing foldable technology. The anticipated price tag of over $2,000 might also restrict early demand and availability, with Apple likely targeting select markets before a broader global rollout.
Industry insights from IDC suggest that Apple’s entry into the foldable segment could transform it into one of the fastest-growing areas within the smartphone industry. They predict Apple could ship over 17 million foldable iPhones by 2027, securing roughly 40% of the global foldable market. IDC also forecasts that the overall foldable smartphone market will grow to 22.9 million units in 2026, marking a 12.6% increase, followed by an 18% increase to approximately 27 million units in 2027.
Apple’s entry could potentially alter the competitive dynamics, challenging established players like Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi in the foldable arena. Reports hint that Apple’s first foldable offering may come equipped with a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.8-inch foldable main display, featuring Touch ID, an A20 Pro chip based on a 2-nanometer process, and dual 48-megapixel cameras.
If Apple can navigate the manufacturing hurdles and address the high pricing, its venture into foldables could significantly bolster the category and swiftly position the company as a dominant force in the market.
