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Apple's Foldable iPhone to Use Technology From iPhone 17 Air

Apple's Foldable iPhone to Use Technology From iPhone 17 Air

  • 17.03.2025 15:48
  • macrumors.com
  • Keywords: Extracted companies: Apple, Foxconn

Apple is developing a foldable iPhone using technology from the upcoming iPhone 17 Air, featuring a design similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold with less screen crease. The foldable model could arrive as early as next year and may cost around $2,300, making it Apple's most expensive iPhone ever.

Apple ReportsAAPLsentiment_satisfied

Estimated market influence

Apple

Apple

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: Buy

Apple is developing a foldable iPhone using technology from the iPhone 17 Air. They are leveraging advancements in display, battery, and chip technology to create this new product. This could potentially expand their market share in the smartphone industry, particularly in the premium and innovative segments.

Foxconn

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Foxconn is involved in the manufacturing of Apple's foldable iPhone as it has entered the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at their facility. This partnership indicates Foxconn's continued role in Apple's supply chain, which is crucial for mass production capabilities.

Context

Analysis of Apple's Foldable iPhone Development and Market Implications

Overview

  • Foldable iPhone Development: Apple is leveraging technologies from the upcoming iPhone 17 Air to develop a foldable iPhone, potentially arriving as early as late next year or early 2027.
  • Design and Features:
    • Similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold, featuring a book-style folding mechanism.
    • Expected to have minimal screen crease when open.
    • Will utilize display, battery, modem, and chip advancements from the iPhone 17 Air.

Market Trends

  • Foldable Phone Growth: The foldable smartphone market is growing, particularly in China and South Korea, with Samsung leading the segment.
  • Apple's Entry: Apple's entry into the foldable market could challenge Samsung's dominance while potentially attracting new users to the ecosystem.

Competitive Dynamics

  • Technology Leverage: Apple plans to use proven technologies from the iPhone 17 Air, which includes a 6.6-inch 120Hz ProMotion display and advanced battery life.
  • Cost Efficiency: By reusing existing components, Apple aims to reduce development costs and risks associated with introducing new technologies.

Strategic Considerations

  • High Price Point:
    • The foldable iPhone is expected to have a starting price of $2,300 in the U.S., making it Apple's most expensive model.
    • This pricing strategy targets premium customers and could reinforce Apple's position as a luxury brand.
  • Market Positioning: Apple's foldable iPhone will likely compete directly with Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series, positioning itself as a premium alternative.

Long-Term Effects

  • Innovation Leadership: If successful, Apple's foldable iPhone could set new standards in smartphone design and technology, influencing other manufacturers to follow suit.
  • Potential Risks:
    • High production costs and limited adoption rates may impact profitability if the market does not respond as expected.

Regulatory Impacts

  • Supply Chain Challenges: The development of foldable iPhones may face regulatory hurdles or export restrictions, particularly in regions where Apple sources components.
  • Compliance Requirements: Ensuring compliance with global standards for electronic devices will be critical to avoid delays and penalties.

This analysis highlights the strategic importance of Apple's foldable iPhone initiative, its potential market impact, and the competitive landscape it will enter.