Apple’s anticipated entry into the foldable smartphone market with its debut foldable iPhone is expected to reinvigorate the industry, according to analysts. The company, known for its influential product launches, could drive substantial growth in a sector that has recently seen a downturn. In the first half of 2026, global shipments of foldable smartphones dropped by 8% compared to the previous year. However, a resurgence is forecasted in the latter half, with overall shipments for the year predicted to reach approximately 23 million units. This momentum is projected to continue into 2027.
Market analysts predict that Apple’s introduction of a foldable device will rapidly secure a significant portion of the market. Smart Analytics Global forecasts that by the close of 2026, Apple may capture 25% of the global foldable shipments, escalating to around 41% in 2027. Despite this promising outlook, the initial rollout of Apple’s foldable iPhone is expected to encounter supply constraints due to the complexities inherent in manufacturing foldable technology. In addition, its steep price, reportedly exceeding $2,000, might curb initial demand, possibly leading Apple to release the device in select markets before a broader global distribution.
Research firm IDC anticipates that Apple’s foray into foldables could transform this segment into one of the smartphone industry’s fastest-growing areas. Projections suggest that Apple could ship over 17 million foldable iPhones by 2027, securing an estimated 40% share of the global foldable market. IDC also forecasts growth in the overall foldable smartphone market, expecting it to reach 22.9 million units in 2026, a 12.6% increase, and approximately 27 million units in 2027, marking an 18% growth rate.
The arrival of Apple’s foldable iPhone is poised to shake up the competitive landscape, posing a significant challenge to established foldable smartphone manufacturers such as Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Reports indicate that Apple’s first foldable model might come equipped with a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.8-inch main foldable display. Additional features could include Touch ID, an A20 Pro chip based on a 2-nanometer process, and dual 48-megapixel cameras.
Should Apple successfully navigate the production hurdles and address the high price point, its entry could significantly bolster the foldable smartphone category. This move has the potential to swiftly position Apple as a dominant force in the market, contributing to a resurgence in interest and innovation within the foldable device sector.