Apple’s Foldable iPhone Could Bring Price Shock

Apple’s endeavor to create a foldable iPhone has largely existed in the realm of speculation and anticipation among tech enthusiasts. Yet, insights from industry analysts occasionally shed light on its potential features and pricing. The most recent forecasts come from Ming-Chi Kuo, and they might not cheer fans of the brand.

In his latest note to investors, Kuo estimates that the price for Apple’s flip-style phone could fall between $2,000 and $2,500. For context, Samsung’s newest flagship foldable device, the Galaxy Z Fold 6, is priced at around $1,900.

Kuo identifies several reasons for this steep price point. He suggests that Apple aims to uphold its premium brand reputation, suggesting that to maintain its high-end status, the pricing will be higher than competitors, assuming the phone will offer enticing hardware quality in return.

Additionally, despite the potential for higher costs, Kuo believes there will be substantial demand for a foldable iPhone among consumers.

However, several features could warrant this premium price. Kuo mentions that Apple is pursuing a design without creases for its foldable device, a challenge that no other smartphone manufacturer has fully conquered yet, although Oppo’s Find N5 has come the closest.

Moreover, Apple is focusing on a high-quality build, potentially incorporating a titanium alloy for the chassis, and might utilize a stainless steel-titanium composite for some internal components, similar to what is seen in the iPhone 16 Pro models.

Furthermore, this device is expected to be remarkably thin, measuring just 4.5 to 4.8 mm when opened, comparable to the latest models from Honor and Oppo. In regard to power, Apple plans to use a high-density battery technology, aligned with what it’s targeting for the rumored iPhone 17 Air.

That said, many details are still uncertain. Kuo mentions that final specifications won’t be finalized until the second quarter of 2025, with mass production anticipated to start in late 2026. As for when the foldable iPhone might actually be available for purchase, Kuo suggests that it could debut in the latter half of 2027.