iPhone Fold Could Dominate 22% of Foldable Market in Debut Year, per IDC

Apple’s anticipated foldable iPhone is expected to impact the foldable smartphone market in 2026. A forecast from IDC suggests the device may capture over 22 percent of worldwide foldable shipments and take 34 percent of total market revenue in its first year.

Apple Foldable Expected to Drive Market Growth

IDC says Apple entering the foldable space could boost the entire market. Samsung and Google lead the segment today, and Apple’s entry could shift consumer perception. The research predicts a starting price of around 2400 dollars for the iPhone Fold, placing it well above standard smartphone pricing. Francisco Jeronimo from IDC says this premium approach can raise the perceived value of foldables. Shipments will likely stay lower than regular phones, but revenue per unit will be much higher.

Jeronimo notes that Apple has a history of taking new product types mainstream. Even if foldables stay niche, awareness and interest are expected to jump once Apple joins.

IDC expects the foldable market to grow by 30 percent in 2026, driven by Apple’s launch and the January 2026 release of Samsung’s Galaxy Z Trifold.

Rumored Specs and Design

Reports suggest the iPhone Fold may launch in fall 2026, possibly alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series. The design is a horizontal fold similar to a book. It becomes compact when closed and turns into a tablet-like display when opened. Closed, it may measure around 5.5 inches and expand to about 7.8 inches, close to an iPad mini display.

Apple is working on a reinforced hinge to reduce or remove the screen crease. If successful, the iPhone Fold could be one of the first foldables with a near crease-free display.

Revenue Impact Over Unit Sales

IDC highlights the revenue potential of foldables. The devices usually cost about three times more than standard smartphones. Apple’s plan to focus on the premium segment could help it dominate revenue even with fewer unit sales.

Samsung and Google lead in volume, but Apple may pass them in revenue inside the foldable category.

Launch Window and Market Impact

IDC believes Apple joining the segment could be a key moment for foldables. It signals that high-end foldable devices are worth investing in. With Samsung’s Galaxy Z Trifold launching earlier in the year, Apple will enter a market that is already improving on durability and real use cases instead of novelty.

Details of the iPhone Fold remain private, but early projections show high expectations.