Apple is preparing its supply chain for a substantial increase in production, anticipating a 10% rise in iPhone sales for 2026 compared to the 2025 iPhone 17 launch. Sources indicate that the company is forecasting 95 million units for the iPhone 18 launch, up from 85 million for the iPhone 17. This optimism is largely driven by the foldable iPhone, which is expected to create a halo effect, enticing consumers to upgrade not only to the new foldable model but also to traditional iPhone 18 models. The company has already begun trial production at a facility in Taiwan, with mass production slated to start in the third quarter of 2026, ensuring availability for a fall release.
Design and Features of the iPhone Fold
The foldable iPhone, often referred to as the iPhone Fold, will adopt a book-style design, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. When closed, it will feature a 5.5-inch outer display, ideal for quick tasks like checking notifications or making calls. Unfolded, it will reveal a 7.8-inch inner display, offering a tablet-like experience for multitasking, gaming, or media consumption. The device is expected to be remarkably thin, measuring 9 to 9.5 mm when folded and as little as 4.5 to 4.8 mm when unfolded, making it one of the slimmest iPhones ever. Apple is also working to minimize the display crease, a common challenge in foldable devices, to ensure a seamless user experience.
The iPhone Fold will incorporate advanced technology, including Apple’s second-generation C2 modem for faster mobile data speeds and a titanium alloy casing with a stainless steel and titanium hinge for durability. Notably, the device will feature four cameras: one on the front display, one on the inner screen, and two on the rear, with one likely serving as an ultra-wide or telephoto lens. However, unlike other premium iPhones, it will use Touch ID integrated into the side button instead of Face ID, likely due to space constraints in the thin chassis.
A Premium Price for Cutting-Edge Technology
The foldable iPhone is expected to come with a premium price tag, with estimates ranging from $1,999 to $2,500. This positions it as a high-end offering, comparable to competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold, which retails for around $1,800. While the steep price may limit its mass-market appeal, Apple’s strong brand loyalty and the device’s innovative design are likely to attract early adopters and tech enthusiasts. The company’s focus on quality, from a nearly invisible display crease to robust hardware, aims to justify the cost and set a new standard in the foldable market.
Impact on the Smartphone Market
Apple’s entry into the foldable market comes at a time when competitors like Samsung have already established a foothold, with Samsung selling around 2 million foldable units annually. However, the foldable smartphone market has seen slowing growth, with a projected 5% rise in 2024 and a potential 4% decline in 2025. Apple’s arrival could reinvigorate this segment, leveraging its reputation for polished hardware and software integration. The iPhone Fold is expected to ship 8 to 10 million units in 2026, with projections rising to 20 to 25 million in 2027, signaling Apple’s confidence in its long-term potential.
The device’s software experience will be a key differentiator. Apple is reportedly developing new iOS features to take advantage of the foldable form factor, such as enhanced multitasking and windowing capabilities. These could allow users to run multiple apps side by side, similar to iPadOS, making the iPhone Fold a versatile tool for productivity and entertainment. By combining these software advancements with its signature ecosystem integration, Apple aims to offer a foldable device that feels distinctly different from Android competitors.
Strategic Timing and Market Positioning
Apple’s decision to launch a foldable iPhone in 2026 reflects its strategy of entering markets only when it can deliver a refined product. Unlike early foldable phones from competitors, which faced issues like screen durability, Apple has taken time to perfect its design. The company’s supply chain adjustments, including partnerships with Foxconn and Samsung Display, indicate meticulous planning to meet demand while maintaining quality. The foldable iPhone will be part of a broader iPhone 18 lineup, including the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and Air 2, ensuring options for a wide range of consumers.
This launch also aligns with Apple’s efforts to recover from anticipated softer sales in 2025, partly due to delays in delivering promised Apple Intelligence features for the iPhone 16. The foldable iPhone, with its cutting-edge design and advanced chipset—the A20, built on a 2-nanometer process—could rekindle excitement and drive upgrades among loyal customers.
