In the competitive landscape of foldable smartphones, brands like Samsung, Google, and Motorola have established a significant presence with devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Motorola Razr Ultra. Despite numerous offerings, a foldable iPhone remains conspicuously absent, leaving the Android ecosystem to dominate this niche.
Recent trends indicate a lukewarm reception for foldables among consumers, with a CNET survey revealing that 64% of participants are not interested in such devices. However, speculation around an Apple foldable has generated excitement, especially following the launch of the iPhone 17 series and the innovative iPhone Air in September.
Analysts suggest that Apple’s ongoing work may lead to a foldable device by the end of 2026, with a potential price range between $2,000 and $2,500. A recent patent awarded to Apple in July 2024 hints at their long-term commitment to this project. Expectations are high, with projected shipments of 3 to 5 million devices, despite only 19.3 million foldables sold globally in 2024, according to IDC.