Apple’s anticipated entry into the foldable smartphone market with its inaugural foldable iPhone could reinvigorate a sector that has struggled to maintain its momentum. The global market for foldable smartphones witnessed an 8% decline in shipments during the first half of 2026. However, industry experts predict a resurgence in the latter half of the year, forecasting total shipments to reach approximately 23 million units by year’s end and continuing to grow into 2027.
Industry analysts are optimistic about Apple’s impact on the foldable market, projecting the tech giant to capture a significant share shortly after the launch of its foldable device. According to Smart Analytics Global, Apple may hold 25% of the global foldable shipments by the close of 2026, with potential growth to about 41% by 2027. Despite this, the initial rollout might face supply challenges due to the complexities involved in manufacturing foldable technology. The anticipated retail price of over $2,000 could also constrain initial demand, with Apple likely debuting the device in select regions before a broader global release.
The entry of Apple into the foldable arena is expected to transform the market dynamics significantly. Research firm IDC predicts that Apple’s influence will make foldables one of the most rapidly expanding segments in the smartphone industry. Projections suggest that Apple could ship upwards of 17 million foldable iPhones by 2027, securing approximately 40% of the market share. Overall, the foldable smartphone market is expected to grow from 22.9 million units in 2026, marking a 12.6% increase, to around 27 million units in 2027, reflecting an 18% growth rate.
Apple’s debut in the foldable segment could potentially rearrange the competitive landscape, posing a formidable challenge to established players such as Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Speculations indicate that Apple’s first foldable iPhone might include features like 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.
If Apple successfully navigates the manufacturing intricacies and addresses the high cost barrier, its entry could significantly bolster the foldable smartphone category, positioning the company as a dominant force in this cutting-edge market within a short timeframe.