In an exciting development for tech enthusiasts, Apple is reportedly planning to launch a folding iPhone as early as next year, according to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. This revelation comes as Kuo, who is known for his accurate predictions regarding Apple products, shared insights on the potential features and production plans for this innovative device.
Kuo mentioned that the upcoming folding iPhone could feature a display manufactured by Samsung Display, which is gearing up to produce as many as 8 million foldable panels for the device in the coming year. This collaboration highlights the ongoing partnership between Apple and Samsung, particularly in display technology. However, Kuo pointed out that the specifics regarding other essential components, such as the device's hinge, have yet to be finalized.
As with many of its flagship products, Kuo anticipates that the folding iPhone will come with a premium price tag. This aligns with Apple's strategy of positioning its devices as high-end products, catering to a market segment that values quality and innovation. Kuo emphasized that while the plans for the folding iPhone are in motion, they are not yet set in stone and could be subject to revisions as development progresses.
The iPhone remains a cornerstone of Apple’s business, accounting for over half of its revenue. In fiscal 2024, iPhone sales reached a staggering $201 billion, underscoring the device's significance in Apple's product lineup. However, it's worth noting that iPhone revenues peaked in 2022, prompting Apple to explore new avenues to attract customers, particularly through innovative products like the folding iPhone.
Since 2019, various competitors, including Huawei and Samsung, have entered the folding smartphone market, offering devices that combine the screen size of a tablet with the portability of a smartphone. Despite the allure of folding technology, these devices still face challenges, such as visible creases on the display where it folds and concerns about long-term durability. Moreover, the folding smartphone market has yet to demonstrate sustained demand, with research firm Trendforce reporting that only 1.5% of all smartphones sold last year were foldable.
Recent data from Counterpoint indicates that the folding smartphone market experienced only a 3% growth in 2024 and is projected to decline in 2025. This raises questions about the long-term viability of folding technology and whether Apple's entry into this segment will reignite consumer interest. As Apple navigates these competitive waters, the success of the folding iPhone will depend not only on its innovative features but also on its ability to address the current hardware challenges faced by existing foldable devices.
In conclusion, Apple's plans for a folding iPhone represent a significant step forward in smartphone innovation. As the company seeks to maintain its leadership in the tech industry, the introduction of a foldable device could play a crucial role in attracting new customers and encouraging upgrades among existing users. As we await more details, the tech community remains keenly interested in how this venture will unfold.
