Apple is reportedly preparing to enter the foldable device market, with plans to launch both a foldable iPhone and a larger foldable device by late 2026. According to analyst Jeff Pu of GF Securities, both devices are expected to enter mass production in the fourth quarter of 2026, suggesting a potential release by the end of that year or early 2027.
Foldable iPhone: A New Frontier
The foldable iPhone, often referred to as the “iPhone Fold,” is anticipated to feature a 7.8-inch inner display. Reports suggest that Apple may opt for Touch ID over Face ID due to space constraints in the foldable design. The device is expected to be priced between $2,000 and $2,500, positioning it as a premium offering in Apple’s lineup.
The Larger Foldable: iPad or MacBook?
The second device, featuring an 18.8-inch foldable display, has sparked debate among analysts regarding its classification. Some, like Jeff Pu, believe it will be a MacBook–iPad hybrid with a full touch display and support for macOS, while others, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, refer to it as a foldable iPad. The final designation may depend on the operating system Apple chooses to implement.
Diverging Analyst Opinions
While Pu maintains a 2026 release timeline for both devices, other analysts are more conservative. Gurman has suggested that the foldable iPad may not arrive until 2028, allowing Apple to test the market’s reception to foldables with the iPhone Fold first. Similarly, analyst Ross Young has indicated a later release date for the larger foldable device.
Apple’s Strategic Entry into Foldables
Apple’s move into the foldable market comes as competitors like Samsung and Huawei have already established a presence with their own foldable devices. Apple’s approach appears to focus on ensuring a high-quality user experience, potentially addressing issues like screen creases and hinge durability that have affected other foldables.
As the anticipated release dates approach, more details about Apple’s foldable devices are expected to emerge, offering a clearer picture of how the company plans to innovate within this evolving segment of the tech industry.
