Apple is expected to enter the foldable smartphone market by September 2026 with the launch of its first foldable iPhone, which will reportedly be part of the iPhone 18 lineup.
While Apple has yet to confirm the device, JPMorgan analyst Samik Chatterjee shared insights in a recent investor note that indicate a 7.8-inch internal display and a 5.5-inch external cover screen, both designed in a book-style fold, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold series by Samsung. Notably, the internal display is expected to be crease-free.
The pricing of Apple’s foldable iPhone is projected at $1,999, according to Chatterjee, who estimates that the device could generate as much as $65 billion in revenue for the company.
He also forecasted that sales could reach low-teen millions by fiscal 2027, and potentially climb to the mid-40 million range by fiscal 2029.
While that’s a relatively small volume compared to Apple’s standard iPhone lineup, the revenue value stems from the higher price point and premium materials.
Key players in the supply chain are expected to benefit from the foldable’s unique hardware requirements. Amphenol and Corning, for instance, are likely to see gains from their contributions to the foldable’s design, Amphenol in electronic connectors and Corning for specialized glass components.
Their upside, according to the analyst, will come more from the complexity and value of the parts supplied than from volume.
Previous leaks have floated a $2,300 price for the foldable iPhone’s base model. The device is rumoured to feature a slim profile, 9.2mm when folded and 4.6mm when open, an aluminium alloy middle frame, and a dual rear camera setup. Apple is also expected to keep the rollout limited at launch.
Given Apple’s usual approach to hardware rollouts, where design precision, ecosystem integration, and durability are prioritised, the company’s entrance into the foldable segment is likely to shift consumer expectations around device quality in this category. Still, the pricing and form factor may limit early adoption to premium buyers and enthusiasts.
Don’t miss important articles during the week. Subscribe to techbuild weekly digest for updates
