Apple is poised to make a significant entrance into the foldable smartphone market with its anticipated foldable iPhone, a development that experts believe could revitalize a segment that has recently seen slowing momentum. In the first half of 2026, global shipments of foldable smartphones saw an 8% year-on-year decline. However, market analysts predict a robust recovery in the latter half of the year, with projections estimating annual shipments to reach approximately 23 million units and continued growth into 2027.
Industry experts anticipate that Apple’s entry could rapidly secure a notable market share. According to projections from Smart Analytics Global, Apple’s share of global foldable shipments might reach 25% by the end of 2026, increasing to around 41% in 2027. Despite this optimism, the initial rollout of Apple’s foldable device is expected to face challenges, particularly due to the complex nature of manufacturing foldable technology. The new device’s starting price, likely exceeding $2,000, could also restrict early demand and availability, possibly leading Apple to introduce the product in select markets initially before a broader global release.
Research firm IDC suggests that the introduction of a foldable iPhone could transform foldables into one of the fastest-expanding segments within the smartphone industry. Their forecasts suggest that Apple could ship over 17 million foldable iPhones by 2027, capturing nearly 40% of the global foldable market. Overall, IDC expects the foldable smartphone market to grow to 22.9 million units in 2026, marking a 12.6% increase, and to approximately 27 million units in 2027, representing an 18% growth.
The anticipated launch of Apple’s foldable device could significantly alter the current competitive dynamics, posing a challenge to established players like Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Reports indicate that Apple’s initial foldable model may include a 5.5-inch cover display alongside a 7.8-inch foldable main display. Additional features could include Touch ID, an advanced A20 Pro chip utilizing a 2-nanometer process, and dual 48-megapixel cameras.
If Apple successfully navigates the complexity of manufacturing and addresses the challenges posed by its high price point, its debut in the foldable smartphone arena could provide a substantial boost to the category. Such a move would not only invigorate the market but could also rapidly position Apple as a dominant force in the foldable smartphone sector.