Apple is poised to make its debut in the foldable smartphone sector, a move anticipated by analysts to invigorate growth in a market that has recently experienced a slump. Global foldable smartphone shipments saw an 8% decline in the first half of 2026 compared to the previous year. However, market researchers are optimistic about a robust recovery in the latter half of the year, forecasting approximately 23 million units shipped by the end of 2026, with continued growth into 2027.
Industry experts project that Apple will quickly capture a significant portion of the foldable market following the launch of its foldable iPhone. According to Smart Analytics Global, the tech giant could secure about 25% of global foldable shipments by the close of 2026, potentially climbing to around 41% in 2027. This surge is expected despite anticipated supply constraints due to the intricate nature of foldable manufacturing and a steep starting price exceeding $2,000. Initial releases might be limited to select markets before a broader global rollout.
Research firm IDC predicts that Apple’s entrance into the foldable market could position the segment as one of the fastest-growing areas within the smartphone industry. They estimate that by 2027, Apple could dispatch over 17 million foldable iPhones, claiming nearly 40% of the global foldable market share. Furthermore, IDC forecasts that the foldable smartphone market will expand to 22.9 million units in 2026, marking a 12.6% increase, and further grow to approximately 27 million units by 2027, reflecting an 18% rise.
Apple’s introduction of a foldable iPhone is expected to redefine the competitive dynamics, posing a significant challenge to established foldable smartphone manufacturers like Samsung, Huawei, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Reports indicate that Apple’s inaugural foldable model might boast a 5.5-inch cover display alongside a 7.8-inch main foldable screen. Additional features could include Touch ID, an A20 Pro chip utilizing a 2-nanometer process, and dual 48-megapixel cameras.
If Apple successfully navigates the manufacturing hurdles and addresses the high cost of its device, its participation could significantly bolster the foldable smartphone category. This strategic entry could swiftly position Apple as a dominant force in the foldable market, potentially reshaping the landscape and accelerating the sector’s growth trajectory.