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Apple Likely To Start Production Of Foldable iPhone Next Year

Apple Likely To Start Production Of Foldable iPhone Next Year

  • 19.03.2025 03:58
  • news18.com
  • Keywords: Apple, Foldable Phone Market

Apple is set to begin production of its first foldable iPhone next year, with plans for two models by late 2026. Samsung currently dominates the foldable smartphone market, holding a 56% share.

Apple ReportsAAPLsentiment_satisfied

Estimated market influence

Apple

Apple

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: Buy

Apple is planning to enter the foldable phone market with two devices, one starting production next year. This move could challenge Samsung's current leadership.

Samsung

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Currently leading the foldable smartphone market with a 56% share, Samsung is facing potential competition from Apple's upcoming products.

Context

Analysis of Apple's Foldable iPhone Entry

Key Facts and Data Points

  • Production Timeline:

    • Apple plans to begin mass production of its first foldable devices in the second half of 2026.
    • An early prototype could be developed as soon as April 2025.

  • Product Details:

    • Foldable iPhone:
      • Expected to feature a 7.8-inch primary display and a 5.5-inch cover screen.
    • Foldable iPad Pro:
      • Boasts an 18.8-inch foldable display.

  • Market Share:

    • Samsung currently leads the foldable smartphone market with a 56% share.

  • Development Stage:

    • Both devices have entered the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn, a critical stage in manufacturing.

Market Trends and Business Impact

  • Foldable Smartphone Growth:

    • The foldable smartphone market is expanding rapidly, with Samsung as the dominant player. Apple's entry signals increased competition and innovation in this segment.

  • Competitive Dynamics:

    • Apple's move challenges Samsung's leadership but also positions Apple to capture a significant share of the premium foldable market. Other brands like Google, Huawei, and Xiaomi may accelerate their own foldable product developments in response.

Strategic Considerations

  • Product Strategy:

    • Apple is diversifying its product portfolio by entering the foldable segment, which could attract tech-savvy consumers seeking cutting-edge innovation.

  • Production and Supply Chain:

    • Foxconn's involvement in the NPI phase underscores Apple's reliance on key manufacturing partners for complex device production.

Long-Term Effects and Regulatory Impacts

  • Innovation Push:

    • The development of foldable devices may drive advancements in display technology, materials science, and user interface design.

  • Regulatory Considerations:

    • As foldable devices become more mainstream, regulators may need to adapt standards for durability, safety, and environmental impact.

Conclusion

Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone market is a strategic move that could redefine the premium segment. With production set to begin in late 2026, the company aims to challenge Samsung's dominance while offering consumers innovative new devices. The competitive landscape will likely intensify, driving further innovation and potentially reshaping the global smartphone market格局.