Apple’s first foldable iPhone could be a bigger pillar for the lineup than previously thought, according to a fresh analyst note. Ming-Chi Kuo says Apple has raised its shipment forecasts for the foldable model, signaling growing confidence that consumers are ready for a true premium foldable.
What the forecast says
– 2026: Apple is now projected to ship about 8–10 million units of the foldable iPhone, up from a prior estimate of 6–8 million.
– 2027: The forecast climbs to 20–25 million units, up from 10–15 million.
The revised numbers come from Kuo’s sources in the supply chain, which he notes makes the figures credible. The sizable jump, especially for 2027, suggests Apple believes foldables could move beyond niche adoption toward broader mainstream appeal.
Context and implications
– Timing and market signals: The updated forecast aligns with a broader belief in growing consumer interest in flexible form factors and premium devices. If the trajectory holds, the foldable iPhone could become a meaningful contributor to Apple’s annual unit mix in the latter half of the decade.
– Price as a potential hurdle: While interest appears high among certain consumers, the foldable’s premium price point remains a key factor that could shape actual adoption rates.
– Industry impact: A faster-than-expected ramp would have ripple effects for suppliers of foldable displays, hinge mechanisms, and related components, potentially influencing production planning and component pricing in the supply chain.
– Consumer sentiment: Anecdotal interest in foldables remains strong among tech enthusiasts and early adopters, which could help sustain momentum as Apple refines its design and software integration with iOS.
What this means for readers
– If Apple meets or exceeds these forecasts, the iPhone Fold could become a notable doorway into foldable technology for a broader audience, potentially accelerating competition and innovation in the space.
– As Apple continues to expand its flagship lineup with more premium, feature-rich devices, the foldable iPhone could help diversify the company’s revenue streams and entice customers seeking a tablet-to-phone hybrid experience in a single package.
Possible angles for ongoing coverage
– How Apple plans to address durability, battery life, and software optimization to support a foldable device at scale.
– The role of carrier partnerships and regional rollout plans in supporting a multi-year ramp.
– Comparisons with foldables from other major players and how pricing, design, and ecosystem integration may influence consumer choice.
– A closer look at supplier readiness and potential bottlenecks as production scales toward 2027 targets.
Summary
Analyst projections indicate Apple’s foldable iPhone is moving toward a more ambitious production plan, reflecting growing confidence in foldables’ mainstream appeal. While price and practical usability will influence actual market performance, the forecast suggests foldables could become a significant, long-term component of Apple’s strategy. A hopeful takeaway is that consumer interest in premium, innovative devices remains strong, which could help drive broader adoption if Apple delivers a compelling, reliable experience.