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A New Chapter in Apple’s Product Evolution
Apple is finally gearing up to step into the foldable smartphone space—an area long dominated by Samsung and other Android OEMs. The foldable market, once considered niche and experimental, is maturing rapidly. Now, Cupertino wants a piece of the action. According to renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple’s first foldable iPhone may arrive in 2026, with production expected to start in the second half of 2025. This isn’t just a new device; it signals a radical shift in how Apple envisions the future of mobile design.
In this article, we’ll break down the key details from Kuo’s analysis, explore what makes this foldable iPhone different, and share what it means for Apple—and the industry.
Summary: What We Know About the Foldable iPhone
Apple is planning to launch its first foldable iPhone in 2026, as per tech analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The manufacturing process is set to begin in late Q3 or early Q4 of 2025, with Foxconn leading the assembly efforts. Although the exact components are still under development, especially the hinge system, the foldable display has reportedly been finalized.
The phone will likely feature a book-style fold, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series, rather than a clamshell design. The internal display will be a 7.8-inch panel, promised to be crease-free, which would be a significant improvement over existing foldables. The outer display is expected to measure 5.5 inches, ideal for basic interactions.
The chassis will be made from titanium alloy, helping the device remain both sturdy and lightweight. It’s also expected to be ultra-thin—under 5mm when unfolded, and around 9-9.5mm when folded. Unlike recent iPhones, which rely heavily on Face ID, this model may include Touch ID integrated into the side button, likely due to spatial constraints within the foldable form factor.
Initial shipment forecasts suggest 3 to 5 million units for the first year. Apple reportedly placed total orders for 15–20 million units, spread over a 2–3 year lifecycle, hinting at a slow but steady adoption. With a projected price tag of \$2,000–\$2,500, Apple is clearly targeting high-end consumers.
What Undercode Say:
The foldable iPhone isn’t just another gadget—it’s Apple’s bet on the next major hardware paradigm. Here’s what stands out, and what it signals:
1. Apple’s Timing Reflects Strategic Patience:
Apple isn’t typically first to enter new tech categories, but when it does, it aims to dominate through polish and ecosystem integration. The delay until 2026 suggests Apple is waiting for maturing technologies—durable foldable glass, seamless hinges, and thinner batteries—to deliver a product that feels unmistakably Apple.
2. Crease-Free Display is the Key Differentiator:
If Apple truly delivers a crease-free foldable screen, it will immediately set the device apart from Samsung’s Z Fold, which still struggles with visible creases. This could redefine consumer expectations for the category.
3. Titanium and Thinness Push the Design Envelope:
The foldable is expected to be under 5mm thick when open—that’s a feat of engineering. Combined with a titanium build, Apple is leaning into premium aesthetics and durability, offering a futuristic feel without compromising strength.
4. Touch
With spatial limitations, Apple may be forced to reintroduce Touch ID. This shows a flexible approach that prioritizes user experience over sticking rigidly to Face ID-only solutions. Expect this to be well-executed, likely through a side-mounted capacitive sensor with high reliability.
5. Production Volume Strategy Indicates High Stakes:
The staggered volume approach (15–20 million units over 2–3 years) shows Apple understands this won’t be a mass-market device—yet. Instead, they’re targeting early adopters and Apple loyalists with deep pockets, while watching how the market responds.
6. Price Will Be a Psychological Barrier:
At \$2,000–\$2,500, this is Apple’s most expensive phone yet. The cost will keep it out of reach for many, but Apple is likely banking on the halo effect: the device will drive excitement across its ecosystem, from iPads to Macs.
7. It’s Also a Testbed for Future iPads:
A 7.8-inch screen sits awkwardly between iPhone and iPad Mini sizes. Could this be a sign Apple is also exploring foldable iPads? Very likely. The company could be using this launch as a way to validate engineering choices that will later appear in larger foldable devices.
8. Samsung’s Involvement Hints at Ironic Collaboration:
Samsung Display will reportedly supply the panels. Ironically, Apple’s foldable may be better than Samsung’s own devices—thanks to Apple’s custom calibration, software optimization, and hardware refinement.
9. Foldables Could Spark iOS UI Innovations:
A larger internal display means multitasking, split-screen, drag-and-drop, and perhaps even desktop-like modes. This could lead to the most significant UI shift on iPhones since iOS 7.
10. Market Positioning Aims Beyond Phones:
Apple is likely positioning the foldable as more than just a phone—a productivity hub, a reading device, a content viewer, and possibly, a portable workstation. This vertical integration could pull customers deeper into the Apple ecosystem.
🔍 Fact Checker Results
✅ Confirmed: Ming-Chi Kuo has reported on the foldable iPhone production timeline starting in late 2025.
✅ Confirmed: The design will be similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold, with a crease-free display as a standout feature.
❌ Not Yet Verified: Exact specs like
📊 Prediction:
By late 2027, foldables will comprise at least 15% of Apple’s iPhone revenue, driven by high margins and niche demand. While early adoption will be slow, a successful foldable could pave the way for a foldable iPad-Mac hybrid, transforming Apple’s device lineup by the decade’s end.
References:
Reported By: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
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