Apple is expected to make a significant impact on the foldable smartphone market with the anticipated launch of its first foldable iPhone. This move comes as analysts predict that Apple’s entry could reignite growth in a sector that has recently experienced a slowdown. Despite an 8% decline in global foldable smartphone shipments in the first half of 2026, market research indicates a potential upswing in the second half, with full-year shipments projected at about 23 million units. Growth is expected to continue into 2027.
Industry analysts are optimistic about Apple’s potential market influence, with Smart Analytics Global forecasting that the tech giant could capture 25% of the global foldable market by the end of 2026, potentially increasing to 41% by 2027. However, the new device could initially face supply limitations due to the complexities involved in foldable technology manufacturing. The anticipated retail price of over $2,000 may further restrict early demand, with Apple possibly rolling out the product in select markets before a broader global release.
The research firm IDC highlights the transformative potential of Apple’s entry, suggesting it could make foldables one of the fastest-growing segments in the smartphone industry. Projections estimate that Apple could ship over 17 million foldable iPhones in 2027, capturing nearly 40% of the global market. IDC also forecasts the overall foldable market to grow to 22.9 million units in 2026, marking a 12.6% increase, with an additional growth of 18% to approximately 27 million units in 2027.
Apple’s foray into the foldable space is poised to challenge current leaders like Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape. Speculations about the device’s features include a 5.5-inch cover display coupled with a 7.8-inch foldable main display, support for Touch ID, an A20 Pro chip utilizing a 2-nanometer process, and dual 48-megapixel cameras.
If Apple successfully navigates the manufacturing hurdles and addresses the pricing challenges associated with its new foldable iPhone, it could provide a significant boost to the foldable smartphone market and quickly establish itself as a dominant player in this rapidly evolving sector.