Apple's First Foldable iPhone on Track for 2026, Poised to Redefine the Market
After years of cautious observation, Apple is reportedly on a fast track to release its first foldable iPhone in 2026, marking a significant strategic shift in the company's mobile lineup. This move is not about being the first to market, but rather, about delivering a polished and refined product that can set a new industry standard.
According to a flurry of recent analyst reports, most notably from the highly reliable Ming-Chi Kuo, the foldable iPhone will be part of the "iPhone 18" series, with mass production scheduled for the second half of 2026. Apple's patience is a clear strategy: by waiting, the company has been able to learn from the durability issues and design compromises that have plagued early foldable models from competitors.
The design is rumored to be a "book-style" device, featuring a 7.8-inch inner display that folds inward, paired with a 5.5-inch external screen. A key focus is on eliminating the visible screen crease, a persistent complaint with current foldables. This is a crucial detail that could make the Apple device feel a generation ahead of its rivals. The device is also expected to have a durable build, with a titanium chassis and a new hinge mechanism that may use Liquid Metal.
While Face ID has been a staple of iPhones for years, sources indicate that Apple may return to Touch ID, integrated into the power button, to save on internal space within the complex folding design. The foldable is also expected to feature a new Apple-designed C2 modem for cellular connectivity, as the company continues to move away from Qualcomm.
Pricing for this premium device is expected to be a major factor. Initial reports suggest a starting price of $2,000 to $2,500, which would make it one of the most expensive iPhones ever. This price point, while high, is not entirely out of line with the cost of current top-tier foldable phones from competitors.
Despite the high price, Apple is reportedly bullish on the device's sales potential. The company has revised its shipment forecasts upward, now expecting to sell between 8 and 10 million units in 2026, and a staggering 20 to 25 million in 2027. If these numbers hold, the foldable iPhone could quickly become a dominant force in a market that has been slow to achieve widespread adoption.
This new product is a testament to Apple's strategy of being a "fast follower" rather than a first mover. By perfecting the technology and delivering a seamless user experience, the company aims to not just join the foldable market, but to fundamentally redefine it for the mainstream consumer.
🖋️ Written by Technologies for Mobile Team
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