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The wait for a foldable iPhone might finally be over. Recently, in interview with the industry analyst Ross Young of Display Supply Chain, revealed that Apple is expected to release a foldable phone in 2026. In addition to noting the coming of Apple into the sector, Young’s work underscores the fact that this could revitalize a slowing innovation.
Samsung and Huawei have dominated the current foldable phones market that has been slowing despite excitement around phones such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6. Foldable technology has not been a big seller, with sales unimpressive and interest in the technology highly localized, strong in Europe and Korea and weak in the U.S. and China.
Apple stepping into the foldable iPhone market will, however, alter the dynamics completely. Thanks to its dominance in the American market and the company’s ability to take already existing technology to the next level, Apple has every chance of retasking the foldable category.
According to Young, the benefit that Apple brings will be seen in enhancing the key segments such as the form factor, functionality and durability.Such enhancements may bring in more people and revitalise people’s interest in foldable devices all over the world. “Any improvement in form factor, functionality, use cases, durability etc., could drive new demand for this market,” Young explains.
The expected launch may as well make 2026 a historic year for foldable phones where at least one other brand is expected to release a tri-fold phone. As for where a foldable iPhone may sit on the price scale is still unclear, Apple’s approach to pricing and the brand’s focus on exclusivity and luxury are likely to keep the price of the foldable affordable while maintaining its novelty.
The iPhone maker is trying to catch up on the foldable space. It’s about leading. Even if its history is the indication, the foldable iPhone has the power to revolutionize a segment, given that a niche product would become a mainstream necessity.
Stay tuned as we follow the updates on this groundbreaking innovation. 2026 might just be the year foldables go from curiosity to everyday tech staple!
