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Apple to kick off maiden foldable iPhone production from 2026: Report

Apple to kick off maiden foldable iPhone production from 2026: Report

  • 18.03.2025 08:31
  • business-standard.com
  • Keywords: AI, Startup

Apple plans to start mass production of its first foldable iPhone and iPad in late 2026. The foldable iPhone features a 5.5-inch cover display and sleek design, while the larger device is an 18.8-inch MacBook-iPad hybrid running macOS.

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Estimated market influence

Apple

Apple

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: Buy

Apple is planning to enter the foldable smartphone market with its first foldable iPhone and a large-screen foldable device. This move could potentially disrupt the current smartphone market landscape by introducing innovative designs and technologies, which may lead to increased competition among manufacturers.

Foxconn

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

As Apple's contract manufacturer, Foxconn is set to play a crucial role in the production of these foldable devices. This could enhance Foxconn's position as a leading manufacturing partner and may lead to increased revenue for the company.

Context

Business Insights and Market Implications: Apple's Foldable Devices

Key Facts and Data Points:

  • Mass Production Timeline:

    • Foldable iPhone and foldable iPad expected to enter early prototyping in next month.
    • Mass production likely to begin in the second half of 2026.

  • Foldable iPhone Details:

    • Display: 5.5-inch cover display.
    • Design: Thickness between 9mm and 9.5mm when folded.
    • Hinge Material: Stainless steel and titanium alloy.
    • Outer Casing: Titanium, similar to Apple's Pro iPhone models.

  • Large-Screen Foldable Device:

    • Size: 18.8-inch folding display.
    • Functionality: MacBook-iPad hybrid running on macOS.
    • Launch Timeline: Reportedly unlikely to launch before 2028, according to earlier statements by analyst Kuo.

Market Trends and Business Impact:

  • Competitive Landscape:

    • Apple's entry into foldable devices signals a shift in strategy, as the company joins competitors like Samsung and Huawei in this growing market segment.
    • Foldables are expected to gain traction among tech enthusiasts and early adopters, potentially driving demand for premium smartphones and tablets.

  • Strategic Considerations:

    • Apple's focus on a sleek, premium design with high-quality materials (e.g., titanium) aligns with its brand positioning as a leader in luxury electronics.
    • The foldable MacBook-iPad hybrid could blur the lines between laptops and tablets, appealing to professionals seeking versatile devices.

  • Long-Term Effects:

    • Foldables may disrupt traditional smartphone and tablet markets, encouraging consumers to upgrade from older models.
    • Apple's delayed launch (2026-2028) suggests a cautious approach, likely aimed at ensuring product reliability before scaling up production.

Industry Implications:

  • Supply Chain Dynamics:

    • Foxconn, Apple's contract manufacturer, is already involved in the NPI phase, indicating strong supply chain coordination.
    • The use of premium materials like titanium and stainless steel may increase production costs, impacting profit margins if not managed effectively.

  • Consumer Behavior:

    • Foldables could appeal to users seeking convenience (e.g., larger screens for productivity) without compromising on portability.
    • The market success will depend on factors like durability of hinges, ease of use, and integration with existing Apple ecosystems (iOS/macOS).

  • Regulatory and Market Risks:

    • While not explicitly mentioned, regulatory challenges related to device safety, battery life, and software compatibility could emerge as foldables become more prevalent.
    • The success of foldables will also depend on consumer acceptance and the ability of manufacturers like Apple to differentiate their products from competitors.

Competitive Dynamics:

  • Apple's Positioning:

    • By targeting a premium market segment with innovative designs, Apple aims to maintain its leadership in the high-end electronics space.
    • The foldable MacBook-iPad hybrid could also challenge Microsoft's position in the tablet-laptop hybrid category.

  • Potential Market Share Gains:

    • Foldables are projected to grow rapidly, with market research firms estimating significant revenue opportunities in the next few years.
    • Apple's delayed entry (2026) may allow competitors to capture early adopters, but its brand loyalty and ecosystem integration could offset this risk.

Conclusion:

Apple's foray into foldable devices marks a strategic move to capitalize on emerging market trends while maintaining its premium positioning. The 2026-2028 timeline suggests a deliberate approach to ensure product quality and readiness. Success will hinge on factors like consumer adoption, competitive differentiation, and effective supply chain management.