Apple is expected to launch its first foldable iPhone in 2026

.

Apple is expected to introduce its first foldable iPhone in the second half of 2026, marking a significant milestone for the company as it enters the rapidly growing foldable smartphone market.

This highly anticipated move has the potential to reshape the industry, with Apple’s entry likely to set new standards for innovation and quality in foldable devices.

The foldable smartphone market has seen steady growth over the past few years, driven by companies like Samsung, Huawei, and Motorola. Samsung, in particular, has been a dominant player with its Galaxy Z series, continuously improving the foldable design and durability with each iteration.

However, Apple’s foray into foldables is expected to attract even more attention, as the company is known for its meticulous approach to hardware and software integration, offering an experience that many consumers are eager to explore.

A new report from DSCC highlights the struggles that foldable smartphones are facing in the market. They just endured their first year-over-year decline, and things are expected to get worse. The report notes one reason for optimism though: Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone.

The report states, "After enjoying at least 40 per cent growth per year from 2019-2023, DSCC now believes the foldable smartphone display market will rise just 5 per cent in 2024 and fall by 4 per cent in 2025.

Demand has stalled at around 22M panels. Foldable smartphone display procurement was down 38 per cent Y/Y in Q3’24 and is expected to be down Y/Y in four of the next five quarters."