As the foldable smartphone market anticipates a revitalization, Apple is poised to make a significant impact with its inaugural foldable iPhone. This strategic entry comes at a crucial time, as the category has witnessed a slump with global shipments falling by 8% year-on-year during the first half of 2026. However, market research firms are optimistic about a rebound in the latter half of the year, projecting shipments to reach approximately 23 million units by year’s end, with continued expansion expected into 2027.
Analysts predict that Apple’s venture into foldables could swiftly capture significant market share. According to Smart Analytics Global, the tech giant could command 25% of global foldable shipments by the close of 2026, potentially increasing to around 41% in 2027. Despite these promising forecasts, Apple may initially grapple with supply limitations due to the intricacies involved in manufacturing foldable technology. Additionally, the device’s projected price tag exceeding $2,000 might restrict its early demand and availability, prompting Apple to possibly introduce the product in select markets initially before a broader rollout.
Industry experts anticipate that Apple’s participation could transform foldables into one of the smartphone sector’s most rapidly expanding segments. IDC predicts that by 2027, Apple might ship over 17 million foldable iPhones, capturing roughly 40% of the global market. The overall foldable smartphone market is expected to grow, with IDC projecting shipments to hit 22.9 million units in 2026, marking a 12.6% increase, and approaching 27 million units in 2027, representing an 18% rise.
Apple’s entry could also disrupt the existing competitive dynamics, challenging dominant players in the foldable space such as Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Speculative reports about Apple’s first foldable suggest it might feature a 5.5-inch cover display paired with a 7.8-inch foldable main screen, alongside advanced specifications like Touch ID, an A20 Pro chip built on a 2-nanometer process, and dual 48-megapixel cameras.
If Apple successfully navigates the manufacturing hurdles and the high cost barrier, its presence could significantly invigorate the foldable smartphone segment, swiftly positioning the company as a formidable contender in this innovative market.