Author: Matthew Miller

Quick Read

• Apple might launch its inaugural foldable iPhone by 2026.
• The foldable iPhone might adopt a strategy similar to Samsung’s approach with their foldable phones.
• Apple has apparently reached out to suppliers in Asia for parts.
• Foldable smartphones with AI capabilities are anticipated to boost market demand.
• The global foldable smartphone market increased by 49% in the first quarter of 2023.
• Huawei exceeded Samsung in foldable smartphone sales for the first time.
• Apple may introduce a new camera capability to adjust aperture size.
• Apple has not yet issued an official confirmation.

What We Currently Know About Apple’s Foldable iPhone

Apple is expected to unveil its foldable iPhone by as early as 2026. This forthcoming release might represent the most notable redesign of the company’s main product lineup.

Following Samsung’s Lead

Apple’s latest move is perceived as an attempt to emulate Samsung Electronics, who introduced the first foldable phone back in 2019. Samsung’s objective was to lure new customers with an innovative hardware design, and Apple’s venture into this sector might pursue a similar path.

Progress and Development

As reported by sources, Apple’s foldable iPhone has moved beyond the conceptual stage. The company has contacted suppliers in Asia to begin producing parts for the device. Within Apple, the project is identified by the code name V68.

Market Forces and Rivalry

Foldable smartphones incorporating artificial intelligence functionalities are anticipated to generate substantial demand. Apple confronts intense competition from brands such as Honor and Huawei in China, and Samsung on a global scale. In July, Samsung unveiled its newest foldable phones, which boast lighter designs and enhanced AI features.

Market Growth

The worldwide market for foldable smartphones experienced a remarkable 49% growth in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same timeframe the previous year. For the first time, Huawei surpassed Samsung in foldable phone sales, as reported by Counterpoint Research in May.

Camera Innovations

Apple intends to enhance the camera system on at least one iPhone model. This advancement would let users mechanically adjust the aperture size, which could enable more advanced depth-of-field effects.

No Guarantees Yet

Although these advancements are encouraging, there is no official assurance that Apple will launch a foldable iPhone. The technology company has not provided any comments upon inquiry.

Summary

Apple is poised to make a major leap forward with the anticipated launch of a foldable iPhone by 2026. Inspired by Samsung’s advancements, Apple’s new design has the potential to transform the market, particularly with cutting-edge AI capabilities and camera enhancements. Nevertheless, with strong competition from Huawei and other brands, the future of Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market is both thrilling and unpredictable.

When is Apple anticipated to launch its foldable iPhone?

A: Potentially by 2026.

Q: Which company was the first to innovate in the foldable smartphone market?

In 2019, Samsung Electronics.

What is the internal code name used by Apple for their foldable iPhone project?

The internal project designation is V68.

Q: What was the growth of the global foldable smartphone market in the first quarter of 2023?

The market experienced a 49% increase compared to the previous year.

Q: Which company recently surpassed Samsung in foldable phone sales?

Huawei exceeded Samsung for the first time.

Q: What is a potential new camera feature that Apple could include in their upcoming iPhone models?

A mechanical device enabling users to adjust the size of the aperture.

Q: Did Apple officially announce the launch of its foldable iPhone?

A: No, Apple has not officially confirmed this yet.