Apple is gearing up to enter the foldable smartphone market with an anticipated release of its first foldable iPhone in September 2026. Display analyst Ross Young notes that the current foldable market is experiencing a slowdown in customer interest; however, Apple’s entry could significantly reinvigorate it. Young projects a growth rate exceeding 30% in the foldable market for 2026, with continued growth of 20% in both 2027 and 2028.
Apple to launch foldable iPhone in September 2026
Rumors surrounding Apple’s foldable iPhone have circulated for years. Analysts now suggest that the device could feature a screen size ranging from 7.9 to 8.3 inches, potentially adopting a clamshell design similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip. A clamshell iPhone would fold vertically, providing a full-size device when open while remaining pocket-friendly when closed.
Initial expectations indicated that Apple would follow the clamshell design trajectory. However, recent insights from Young hint at the possibility of a foldable iPhone resembling the Galaxy Z Fold instead. During an inquiry about Apple’s design direction, Young responded that if Apple decides to unveil its first foldable, it would likely opt for a “Fold” model over the “Flip.”
This comes at a crucial juncture for the folding smartphone market, which is bracing for a potential decline in sales. According to a report by Young’s Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), the foldable market may see only a 5% increase in sales this year, with a possible 4% drop in 2025. This marks a stark contrast to the consistent growth of at least 40% seen annually since 2019.
An “iPhone Fold” could capitalize on a growing consumer readiness for larger, more versatile devices. The sales trajectory for Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 suggests that this segment is gaining traction, with its sales expected to surpass those of the Galaxy Z Fold 5. In contrast, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 is projected to see a 10% sales decline compared to the Flip 5.
Apple’s approach could be influenced by its need for a significant impact in the foldable segment. Embracing a Fold design may offer a larger display, facilitating more innovative features. Importantly, it would likely command a higher price point, with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 starting at $1,799, compared to the Galaxy Z Flip 6’s $999 entry-level price.
While Apple fans await the foldable iPhone’s debut, they can anticipate the launch of the iPhone 17 Air in 2025. This device is expected to replace the iPhone Plus and be the thinnest iPhone to date, joined by the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max in the upcoming series.
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