Apple’s Foldable iPhone Could Reshape a Wider Foldable Market

Apple is almost certain to launch its first foldable iPhone tomorrow, seven years after Samsung’s Galaxy Fold initially went on sale. Leaks suggest Apple will pair the device with its iPhone 18 Pro models, while the regular iPhone 18 is supposedly delayed until early next year.

Samsung, Huawei, and Xiaomi have released passport-shaped foldables in recent months. Oppo and Honor are also tipped to be developing similar products. Apple has reportedly worked on a foldable iPhone since at least 2017, with the smaller, wider design tipped as early as February 2025. Samsung is reportedly manufacturing the foldable display panel for the new iPhone.

Counterpoint estimated that foldables represented 1.6 percent of smartphone sales in 2025. Shipments are expected to grow by 20 percent this year, with Apple projected to take a 28 percent share after only a few months on the market.

The launch will also be John Ternus’ first hardware release as Apple’s CEO. The former head of hardware engineering will be tested on whether Apple can retain its market influence over the next five and ten years.