Apple appears poised to make a significant splash in the foldable smartphone market with the anticipated release of its first foldable iPhone. This move is anticipated to invigorate a sector that has recently experienced a slowdown. Though global shipments of foldable smartphones saw an 8% decrease in the first half of 2026, industry analysts predict a rebound in the latter half, forecasting a total of 23 million units shipped by year-end. Expectations are high for continued growth into 2027.
Analysts forecast that Apple will quickly secure a notable portion of the foldable smartphone market following the launch of its foldable device. According to Smart Analytics Global, Apple could capture 25% of global foldable shipments by the end of 2026, with potential growth to approximately 41% by 2027. Despite these optimistic projections, the company may initially encounter supply challenges due to the complexities involved in foldable manufacturing. Additionally, the expected price tag exceeding $2,000 may restrict demand and availability initially, leading Apple to potentially release the device in select markets before a broader global rollout.
The entry of Apple into this segment is anticipated to transform foldables into one of the most rapidly expanding areas within the smartphone industry. Research firm IDC predicts that Apple could ship over 17 million foldable iPhones in 2027, claiming around 40% of the global market share. IDC projects the overall foldable smartphone market will expand to 22.9 million units in 2026, reflecting a 12.6% increase, and further grow to about 27 million units in 2027, marking an 18% rise.
Apple’s upcoming foldable phone could also alter the competitive dynamics, posing a new challenge to established players like Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Reports suggest that the device might come equipped with a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.8-inch foldable main display, along with advanced features such as Touch ID, an A20 Pro chip utilizing a 2-nanometer process, and dual 48-megapixel cameras.
If Apple successfully navigates the manufacturing hurdles and the high price point, its introduction of a foldable iPhone could revitalize the category and swiftly establish Apple as a dominant force in the foldable smartphone market.