Apple is set to shake up the foldable market with its first-ever flip-style iPhone
Apple is reportedly set to debut in the foldable smartphone market in 2026 with the launch of a clamshell-style foldable iPhone. According to a report by Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), this move by the tech giant could lead to a significant expansion in the foldable smartphone market, with sales projected to grow by up to 30% in 2026. This represents a sharp contrast to DSCC’s predictions of 5% growth in 2024 and 4% in 2025.
Apple’s Foldable iPhone: What to Expect
Apple is said to be developing two foldable devices, one of which is a clamshell-style iPhone with a main foldable display between 7.9 and 8.3 inches. According to industry reports, the company is collaborating with Samsung for the supply of advanced display panels. The design is expected to adopt a Galaxy Z Flip-style form factor, providing Apple with a competitive edge in the rapidly growing foldable device segment.
Prominent Apple analyst Jeff Pu had earlier revealed that both foldable devices could be unveiled in 2026, signaling a strategic push by Apple to diversify its product portfolio.
Foldable iPad or MacBook in Development
Apple’s foldable ambitions extend beyond smartphones. The company is also reportedly developing a foldable iPad or an “All-screen MacBook.” This larger device, which may feature an 18.8-inch main foldable display, is expected to debut in 2027.
Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has indicated that the foldable MacBook is progressing along a clear development timeline, with mass production expected to commence by 2027.
Impact on the Foldable Market
The entry of Apple into the foldable segment is anticipated to drive significant growth and innovation. Analysts believe that Apple’s strong brand reputation, coupled with its ability to set industry trends, will increase consumer interest in foldable devices and push competitors to innovate further.
With Apple’s reputation for refining and elevating technology standards, the launch of its foldable devices could create a new benchmark for the industry. The foldable segment, which has so far been dominated by brands like Samsung and Huawei, is expected to benefit from heightened competition and consumer demand.
Market Dynamics and Growth Potential
The global foldable smartphone market has shown steady growth, but Apple’s entry could mark a turning point. DSCC predicts a 30% market expansion in 2026, driven by Apple’s foldable iPhone. This comes at a time when year-over-year growth in the segment has been relatively modest, with projections of just 5% for 2024 and 4% for 2025.
Apple’s expertise in hardware design, software integration, and ecosystem compatibility could make its foldable devices a strong contender in the premium segment, reshaping the market landscape.
Future Outlook
If Apple succeeds in capturing consumer interest with its foldable devices, the company could further solidify its position as a market leader in innovation. The potential launch of a foldable iPad or MacBook in 2027 would further underscore Apple’s commitment to exploring new form factors and expanding its product lineup.
As the foldable device market prepares for Apple’s entry, industry players and consumers alike are watching closely to see how Apple’s innovation will redefine the segment and set new trends for the future of mobile technology.
