Apple is poised to make a significant impact on the foldable smartphone market with the anticipated release of its first foldable iPhone. Analysts suggest that this move could reinvigorate growth in a sector that has recently experienced a slowdown. Despite an 8% dip in global foldable smartphone shipments during the first half of 2026, market research firms predict a robust recovery in the latter half of the year. Forecasts indicate that the total shipments for 2026 could reach approximately 23 million units, with continued growth expected into 2027.
The introduction of a foldable iPhone is expected to swiftly capture a substantial portion of the market. According to Smart Analytics Global, Apple could seize 25% of global foldable shipments by the end of 2026, with this figure potentially rising to around 41% in 2027. While Apple’s entry could revitalize the market, challenges such as initial supply constraints due to the complexity of foldable manufacturing and a hefty price tag exceeding $2,000 may restrict early demand and availability. It’s likely that Apple will initially release the device in select markets before a broader global rollout.
Industry experts, such as those at IDC, anticipate that Apple’s participation could transform foldables into one of the smartphone industry’s fastest-growing segments. IDC forecasts that Apple might ship more than 17 million foldable iPhones by 2027, capturing roughly 40% of the global foldable market. The overall foldable smartphone market is projected to reach 22.9 million units in 2026, marking a 12.6% increase, followed by an estimated 18% growth to about 27 million units in 2027.
Apple’s foray into foldable technology could also alter the competitive dynamics, presenting a challenge to established foldable smartphone manufacturers like Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Speculation suggests that Apple’s initial foldable model may feature a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.8-inch main foldable display, equipped with Touch ID, an A20 Pro chip based on a 2-nanometer process, and dual 48-megapixel cameras. If Apple can navigate the hurdles of manufacturing complexity and its high pricing strategy, its entry could significantly boost the foldable smartphone category and rapidly position the company as a dominant player.