Apple may debut foldable iPhone in 2026, offering design similar to Samsung Galaxy Z Fold

Apple may launch its first foldable iPhone in the second half of next year, according to JP Morgan. In a note to clients (via CNBC), JP Morgan analyst Samik Chatterjee said “With the upgrades to the iPhone 17 series to be released this fall expected to be fairly limited, investor focus has already turned to the 2026 fall launches with Apple expected to launch its first foldable iPhone as part of the iPhone 18 lineup in September 2026”, The note further stated that Apple foldable iPhone may feature a book-style fold similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series.

Apple foldable iPhone: Expected features

According to the JP Morgan analyst, the new foldable iPhone may come with a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch outer display. To compare, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 has an 8-inch inner screen and a 6.5-inch outer screen. The note further adds that the foldable iPhone, being referred to as foldable iPhone 18 by the analyst, is likely to have a crease-free inner display. Notably, Samsung is also rumoured to introduce similar technology with its Galaxy Z Fold scheduled to launch in 2026. The analyst further predicts that the foldable iPhone could cost $1,999.He also predicts that Apple will sell around 10 to 15 million foldable iPhones in fiscal year 2027, with sales expected to grow to around 40 to 45 million units by fiscal year 2029. It “could create a $65 billion revenue opportunity for Apple, leading to a high-single-digit earnings accretion in the medium term”.

What other analysts say

Similar to JP Morgan, other market experts believe Apple is getting ready to launch a foldable iPhone as early as next year. TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo is among them. He expects the device to come with a “premium pricing.”With Apple’s possible entry into the foldable phone market, JPMorgan analyst Samik Chatterjee said certain suppliers could benefit. He named Amphenol, which makes electronic connectors, and Corning, known for its specialty glass. According to Chatterjee, their growth would be “primarily driven by high content in foldable phones rather than the volume associated with it.”Both companies have performed well so far this year. Amphenol’s stock has risen more than 50%, and Corning has gained over 30%, outpacing the S&P 500’s 8% increase during the same period. In contrast, Apple’s shares have dropped more than 15% year to date.