Key Takeaways
1. Apple plans to launch its first foldable iPhone, likely called the iPhone Fold, in fall 2026, marking its entry into the foldable market after being behind competitors like Samsung.
2. The iPhone Fold is expected to closely resemble Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series, with many parts sourced from Samsung, including the flexible AMOLED screen.
3. Despite not setting new benchmarks, the iPhone Fold is anticipated to have solid sales, attracting iPhone users hesitant to switch to Android.
4. The foldable iPhone could be financially beneficial for Apple, with high retail prices expected to exceed $2,000, while also benefiting Samsung from the sale of its foldable components.
5. Unique features are expected for the iPhone Fold, including a nearly invisible display crease and an enhanced hinge design, along with customized software through iOS 27.
Bloomberg’s recent Power On Newsletter from July 20, 2025, offers a captivating look into Apple’s plans for the iPad Pro in 2025 and its most daring venture for 2026: the very first foldable iPhone. Just before the spotlight shines on the iPhone’s 20th anniversary with its sleek glass design, Apple is expected to launch its inaugural foldable iPhone in the fall of 2026, following several delays over the past few years.
Late to the Foldable Market
Apple is somewhat behind its competitors, given that the first Galaxy Fold was introduced back in 2019. In contrast to those previous moments when Apple’s innovations reshaped the industry, like the original iPhone, iPad, or AirPods, this initial foldable iPhone will likely reflect the advancements made by Samsung and others over the seven years leading up to 2026.
Insights from Gurman
As per Mark Gurman’s insights, the Apple foldable, likely referred to as the iPhone Fold, is expected to closely resemble Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series, particularly the current Galaxy Z Fold 7. This isn’t surprising, since most of the parts, including the flexible AMOLED screen, are sourced from the South Korean tech giant. While the iPhone Fold’s debut might not set new benchmarks, Gurman anticipates solid sales. Many iPhone enthusiasts who are hesitant to switch to Android might be excited about a foldable option from Apple, especially given the positive reviews surrounding the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
Financial Prospects for Apple and Samsung
The introduction of the first foldable iPhone could be lucrative for both Apple and Samsung. Apple is poised for financial success: even though production costs are expected to be relatively low, retail prices are anticipated to soar above $2,000, leading to substantial profit margins. The foldable trend is notably gaining traction in China, providing Apple a chance to recover from its recent underwhelming iPhone sales. On the other hand, Samsung can take pride in the years it spent developing this format and may be happy to have a new client for its foldable components. This collaboration might even attract new Galaxy Z Fold 8 buyers from the Android market following Apple’s entry.
Expected Features and Innovations
While the first foldable iPhone will share similarities with Samsung’s model, there are expected to be unique features as well. Previous reports have indicated that Apple’s foldable device will boast a nearly invisible display crease, which is also anticipated for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 next year. Gurman also mentions a “dramatically” enhanced hinge design. Additionally, Apple is likely to customize its software to fit the new form factor through iOS 27, potentially outshining its competitors in certain aspects.
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