Apple’s long-anticipated foldable iPhone is expected to make its debut in late 2026, a structural shift that industry analysts predict will redefine consumer experiences and accelerate the mainstream adoption of flexible devices.
The biggest disruption in the global smartphone market is projected to occur with the launch of Apple’s first foldable iPhone, according to a report by Counterpoint Research. As per an IANS report, Apple’s powerful brand influence and deep ecosystem integration are expected to instantly boost consumer awareness and trigger a strong wave of replacement demand, particularly among high-income consumers. This move is poised to reshape market dynamics and significantly lift overall foldable smartphone sales volumes.
The report forecasts that the US foldable smartphone market will experience a dramatic 68 per cent year-on-year growth in 2025. This surge marks the segment’s entry into a robust expansion phase, following several years of gradual experimentation. The accelerated growth is attributed to increasing consumer acceptance of the foldable form factor, substantial improvements in product durability, and a broader array of model portfolios offered by leading competitors.
While Samsung remains the current leader in the foldable space, the company is set to maintain its dominance with its refreshed Galaxy Z Fold and Flip lineup. Samsung is also expanding accessibility by introducing a more affordable “FE” variant and is reportedly preparing to unveil its long-awaited tri-fold device later this year.
Meanwhile, Motorola is rapidly strengthening its position, narrowing the market share gap with Samsung, by scaling its popular Razr series through expanded carrier partnerships. Google is also making significant strides with its Pixel 10 Pro Fold, launched in October 2025, which aims to bridge the design gap between Samsung’s premium designs and Motorola’s lifestyle-centric approach, emphasizing the integration of its AI-first Android ecosystem into innovative hardware.
Liz Lee, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, commented that while “Samsung maintains a clear lead in maturity and ecosystem integration, Motorola’s fast-paced expansion in the clamshell segment and Google’s AI-driven strategy are adding new layers of competition.”
She concluded that Apple’s arrival in late 2026 will be a defining moment for the industry—effectively transforming foldables from a niche innovation into a mainstream premium category and setting new, elevated standards for design, performance, and user experience.
Key Highlights:
- Launch Date & Impact: Apple is expected to debut its first foldable iPhone in late 2026, a move forecast by Counterpoint Research to accelerate mainstream adoption and significantly boost consumer awareness, particularly among high-income users.
- Market Growth: The US foldable smartphone market is projected to grow by 68% year-on-year in 2025, driven by improved durability, broader product portfolios, and greater consumer acceptance.
- Competitive Landscape: Current market leader Samsung is innovating with a new “FE” variant and a tri-fold device; Motorola is gaining ground with its Razr series; and Google’s Pixel 10 Pro Fold is leveraging an AI-first strategy.
- Industry Transformation: Apple’s entry is expected to cement foldables as a mainstream premium category, setting new industry benchmarks for design and performance.