Apple’s anticipated entry into the foldable smartphone market with its first foldable iPhone is poised to invigorate a sector that has recently experienced a slowdown. While global foldable smartphone shipments saw an 8% decline in the first half of 2026, market analysts are optimistic about a rebound in the latter half of the year. Projections suggest that annual shipments could reach approximately 23 million units, with expectations of continued growth into 2027.
Industry experts foresee Apple capturing a significant portion of the foldable market shortly after launching its device. Smart Analytics Global predicts that Apple could seize 25% of global foldable shipments by the close of 2026, potentially increasing to 41% in 2027. Despite these projections, Apple might initially encounter supply challenges due to the complexities of foldable technology, alongside a high expected price tag exceeding $2,000, which could constrain demand and availability, particularly in its initial release phase.
With Apple’s involvement, research firm IDC anticipates that foldables will become one of the fastest-expanding segments within the smartphone industry. IDC forecasts that Apple’s foldable iPhone shipments could surpass 17 million units by 2027, securing the company around 40% of the global foldable market share. The overall market for foldable devices is expected to grow to 22.9 million units in 2026, marking a 12.6% increase, followed by an estimated 27 million units in 2027, reflecting an 18% growth rate.
This strategic launch by Apple is likely to alter the competitive dynamics, posing a challenge to established foldable smartphone manufacturers such as Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Reports indicate that Apple’s inaugural foldable device might feature a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.8-inch foldable main display, integrated with Touch ID, an A20 Pro chip based on a 2-nanometer process, and dual 48-megapixel cameras.
Should Apple successfully navigate the hurdles of manufacturing intricacies and its premium pricing, the company’s entry into the foldable smartphone sphere could significantly bolster the category, swiftly positioning Apple as a dominant player. This move not only promises to rejuvenate interest but also sets the stage for Apple to reshape the market landscape within a short timeframe.