It seems to be an open secret that Apple is in the early stages of developing a foldable iPhone. The technology giant from Cupertino has not yet confirmed its existence, but it has been registering different patents for folding technologies for some time. A new report from TrendForce says that Apple may not release its own foldable phone until 2027. The foldable phone fold is still a major concern for Apple and that seems to be causing the delay. As Apple waits longer to launch its first foldable, several other brands like Samsung, OnePlus, Vivo and others have launched foldable phones heating up the competition.
Apple iPhone Fold could arrive in 2027
Market research firm TrendForce, in its latest report, notes that it is “unlikely that Apple will launch a foldable phone before 2027”, but its entry could significantly change the dynamics of the market. The iPhone maker is reportedly still evaluating the specifications and performance of the components, with strict requirements for folding and reliability.
In March, a Korean outlet claimed that Apple delayed the release schedule of its foldable iPhone from the fourth quarter of 2026 to the first quarter of 2027 after considering the preparation of various items, including the supply of foldable screens.
Meanwhile, TrendForce expects foldable smartphone shipments to reach 17.8 million units by 2024, accounting for just 1.5 percent of the smartphone market. Samsung, which had more than 80 percent market share by 2022, is now struggling to maintain 50 percent market share after facing increasing competition from various brands. Huawei made significant progress with its 4G Pocket S in 2023, and the brand could increase market share to 30 percent with its first triple-digit phone launch in the third quarter of this year.
The report notes that Xiaomi, Oppo and Vivo struggled to increase sales of foldable phones, while Motorola made a strong entry with its Razr 40 and Razr 40 Ultra.
Apple foldable phone: what we know so far
Apple is said to be working on prototypes of at least two clamshell-style foldable iPhone models and is said to be in discussion for supply orders with LG Display ( LGD ) and Samsung Display ( SDC ). He has applied for patents related to foldable screens. The brand's first foldable phone is said to feature a 6-inch external display and an 8-inch main display.
