Apple is poised to make a significant impact on the foldable smartphone market with the anticipated launch of its first foldable iPhone. This strategic move is expected to inject new momentum into a segment that has recently experienced a slowdown. Despite a global decline in foldable smartphone shipments by 8% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, market analysts are optimistic about a rebound in the latter half. Projections for the entire year suggest shipments could reach approximately 23 million units, with continued growth anticipated into 2027.
Analysts predict that once Apple enters the foldable arena, it could quickly capture a considerable share. According to Smart Analytics Global, Apple might command 25% of the global foldable shipments by the close of 2026, with this figure potentially rising to 41% by 2027. The device, however, may encounter initial supply limitations due to the complexities involved in manufacturing foldable technology. Priced at over $2,000, the foldable iPhone’s debut might be restricted to select markets initially, before a broader global release.
Research firm IDC anticipates that Apple’s entry will transform foldables into one of the fastest-growing sectors within the smartphone industry. Their forecasts suggest Apple could ship more than 17 million foldable iPhones by 2027, capturing around 40% of the global market. IDC expects the overall foldable smartphone market to expand to 22.9 million units in 2026, marking a 12.6% increase, followed by growth to about 27 million units in 2027, representing an 18% rise.
The introduction of Apple’s foldable iPhone could also alter the competitive dynamics, posing a challenge to established brands like Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Reports indicate that Apple’s inaugural foldable model may boast a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.8-inch main display, alongside features such as Touch ID, an A20 Pro chip using a 2-nanometer process, and dual 48-megapixel cameras.
Should Apple successfully navigate manufacturing hurdles and manage the high initial price point, its entry could significantly invigorate the foldable smartphone category, positioning the company as a dominant player in a relatively short timeframe.