Apple’s anticipated entry into the foldable smartphone market is expected to invigorate a sector that has recently experienced a slowdown. The tech giant’s first foldable iPhone, projected to debut soon, is seen by analysts as a catalyst for growth in this niche. Despite an 8% decline in global foldable smartphone shipments in the first half of 2026, experts forecast a robust recovery, predicting shipments to hit approximately 23 million units by year’s end and continue to grow in 2027.
Analysts predict Apple could swiftly capture a significant market share upon entering the foldable arena. Smart Analytics Global projects that Apple might command 25% of global foldable shipments by the end of 2026, increasing to around 41% in 2027. However, initial supply challenges due to the complex nature of foldable technology, coupled with an expected price tag exceeding $2,000, may initially constrain demand and availability. It is likely that Apple will initially release the device in select markets before rolling it out globally.
According to research firm IDC, Apple’s entry could transform foldables into one of the fastest-growing segments of the smartphone industry. IDC forecasts that Apple could ship over 17 million foldable iPhones in 2027, capturing roughly 40% of the global foldable market. The firm also anticipates the overall foldable smartphone market to grow by 12.6% to 22.9 million units in 2026, with an 18% increase to about 27 million units in 2027.
The launch of Apple’s foldable could significantly alter the competitive landscape, posing a challenge to established players like Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Reports indicate that Apple’s first foldable device might feature a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.8-inch foldable main display, along with advanced features such as Touch ID, an A20 Pro chip based on a 2-nanometer process, and dual 48-megapixel cameras.
If Apple can navigate the hurdles of manufacturing complexity and high pricing, its foray into the foldable market could provide a substantial boost to the category and quickly position the company as a dominant force. This strategic move could reshape the market dynamics, further intensifying competition among foldable smartphone manufacturers.