Apple First Foldable iPhone Launch Likely By...: Reports - Check Details

The much-awaited foldable iPhone is likely to be launched in the second half of FY 2026. At a time when speculations are running high around the likely launch of foldable iPhone, a recent report by DSCC, a research company, Apple's foldable iPhone is likely to hit the market in '2H 2026'.

Apple's First Foldable iPhone Launch: What We Know So Far

“Apple is expected to enter the foldable market in 2H '26 and given their dominant position in flagship smartphones could generate significant growth for the foldable smartphone market," the report stated.

Foldable Phones: Current Market Scenario

According to the report, which has been widely cited by various publications across the globe, foldable cell phones are having trouble breaking into the market. It is anticipated that things will worsen after they recently had their first year-over-year downturn. One cause for hope, according to the study, is Apple's impending foldable iPhone. Although they are still relatively new, foldables have recently reached a regrettable stage. Panel procurements declined year over year for the first time in Q3 2024. Furthermore, the display analysts at DSCC predict a full year of drop in 2025, suggesting that this isn't just a passing trend.

“After enjoying at least 40% growth per year from 2019-2023, DSCC now believes the foldable smartphone display market will rise just 5% in 2024 and fall by 4% in 2025. Demand has stalled at around 22M panels. Foldable smartphone display procurement was down 38% Y/Y in Q3’24 and is expected to be down Y/Y in four of the next five quarters," the report said.

Foldable iPhone: What To Expect?

While the foldable smartphone market faces near-term challenges, innovation and new entrants like Apple could drive growth in the coming years. Industry focus on improving form factors, functionality, and durability may rejuvenate consumer demand, making 2026 a turning point for the segment.

Apple’s expected entry into the foldable market in 2026 could reinvigorate growth, with 30% growth projected for that year. Innovations like tri-fold designs and slidable laptops (debuting in 2025) may open new markets.