Apple is reportedly set to introduce its first foldable iPhone in 2026. Initially, many speculated that this device would adopt a clamshell design akin to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip rather than the more expansive Galaxy Z Fold.
However, display industry analyst Ross Young posits that if Apple does launch a foldable iPhone in two years, it would more likely resemble the Galaxy Z Fold. When questioned on X about whether Apple’s device would be a Flip, a Fold, or both, Young stated, “Fold.”
This speculation comes at a crucial time for the foldable smartphone market. A recent report from Young’s Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) suggests that foldable phone sales are anticipated to increase by only 5% this year, with an expected decline of 4% in 2025. This marks a stark contrast to the consistent yearly growth of over 40% the market has seen since 2019, making these projections particularly surprising.
Although September 2026 is still a considerable time away, it may be premature to assess the validity of this rumor regarding Apple’s potential first foldable offering. Nonetheless, there are compelling reasons to believe that Apple is favoring a “Fold” model over a “Flip” design.
Fold
— Ross Young (@DSCCRoss) December 2, 2024
First, by 2026, consumer preferences may have shifted toward a foldable version, like an “iPhone Fold,” rather than a “Flip.” According to the DSCC report, sales of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 are expected to exceed those of the Galaxy Z Fold 5 this year, while the Galaxy Z Flip 6 might see a drop of up to 10% in sales compared to its predecessor, even though the Z Flip remains the best-selling foldable phone currently available.
Additionally, Apple might recognize the necessity to create a notable impact as it enters the foldable phone space, a market it has approached with caution until now. An iPhone Fold would come with a larger screen, allowing Apple to explore a range of design and feature innovations in this new category. Such a product could help rejuvenate Apple’s offerings and draw users in search of versatile gadgets that blend functionality with modern aesthetic appeal.
A foldable iPhone also has the potential to enhance Apple’s profit margins, as it is likely to command a higher price. For comparison, the entry-level Galaxy Z Flip 6 starts at $999, while the least expensive Galaxy Z Fold 6 is priced at $1,799.
For those eager to see what Apple has in store before the end of 2026, the “iPhone 17 Air” is anticipated to roll out next year. This device is expected to be Apple’s slimmest iPhone yet and will likely take the place of the iPhone Plus within the overall lineup. Alongside the iPhone 17 Air, Apple is expected to introduce the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max.
