Apple’s long-rumored entry into foldable phones is starting to look more disruptive than expected. A new industry report suggests that the company’s first foldable, commonly called the iPhone Fold, could reshape the market when it arrives next year.
IDC now predicts that Apple’s foldable will secure more than 22 percent of global foldable shipments in 2026. The device is also expected to command nearly 34 percent of the market’s total value, driven by a rumored price of about 2,400 dollars. Analysts believe this premium positioning will not slow demand and could instead raise the overall visibility of the category.
Consumer interest in foldable phones has already been growing, but IDC expects a sharper rise once Apple launches its model. The report highlights momentum from Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Z TriFold and new foldables from Huawei, which together help expand the segment.
IDC also estimates that foldable phones will continue to outperform the broader smartphone industry in 2026. The category could account for more than 10 percent of the mobile market’s total value by 2029, signaling steady long-term growth.
Rumors suggest the iPhone Fold may feature a 5.8-inch outer display, a 7.58-inch flexible internal screen, and a battery larger than the one in the iPhone 17 Pro Max. These early details indicate that Apple is preparing a high-end device aimed at reshaping premium smartphone expectations.