Apple is poised to make a substantial impact on the foldable smartphone market with its anticipated launch of a foldable iPhone. This move could revitalize a segment that has recently experienced a slowdown. Despite a year-on-year decline of 8% in global shipments during the first half of 2026, industry analysts predict a recovery in the latter half of the year. The total shipments for 2026 are expected to reach approximately 23 million units, with further growth anticipated into 2027.
Upon entering the market, Apple is expected to quickly capture a significant share. According to Smart Analytics Global, the tech giant could seize 25% of global foldable smartphone shipments by the end of 2026, potentially rising to about 41% the following year. However, the company may initially face supply challenges due to the complexities involved in manufacturing foldable devices. Additionally, the iPhone’s expected price tag of over $2,000 could initially limit its availability and appeal, potentially leading Apple to launch the product in select markets before a broader rollout.
Research from IDC suggests that Apple’s entry could transform foldable smartphones into one of the fastest-growing sectors within the smartphone industry. The research firm predicts that Apple could ship more than 17 million foldable iPhones by 2027, claiming roughly 40% of the global foldable market. IDC also forecasts the entire foldable smartphone market to grow to 22.9 million units in 2026, marking a 12.6% increase, followed by an 18% growth to around 27 million units in 2027.
The introduction of Apple’s foldable device could significantly alter the competitive dynamics, posing a challenge to established players like Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Reports indicate that this new iPhone may boast a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.8-inch main foldable screen, complete with features such as Touch ID, an A20 Pro chip built on a 2-nanometer process, and dual 48-megapixel cameras.
Should Apple successfully navigate the hurdles of manufacturing and price, its entry into the foldable smartphone market could provide the category with a much-needed boost, potentially establishing the company as a dominant force within a short timeframe.
