Apple Set to Launch Foldable iPhone in 2026, Priced at $1,999

Apple Inc. is poised to unveil its first foldable iPhone during the company's annual iPhone event scheduled for September 2026, according to a report from JPMorgan Chase & Co. The anticipated device, expected to be a part of the iPhone 18 lineup, is projected to retail for $1,999. This announcement marks a significant entry for Apple into the foldable smartphone market, a sector already populated by competitors such as Samsung, Google, and Motorola.

The foldable iPhone will reportedly feature a 7.8-inch display utilizing advanced Samsung Display technology to eliminate creases, alongside two rear cameras and a Touch ID sensor, diverging from the Face ID technology used in previous models (Valdes, A., CNET, July 29, 2025). Apple’s entry into this segment comes at a time when consumer interest in foldable phones remains tepid, with a recent survey indicating that approximately 64% of potential buyers are not inclined to invest in foldable technology within the next year (CNET, 2025).

Historically, the market for foldable smartphones has seen mixed responses, with Samsung leading the charge through its Galaxy Z Fold series, while Google and Motorola have also launched competitive models. According to Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of Information Technology at Stanford University, “Apple’s late entry into the foldable market may be strategic; it allows them to analyze existing technologies and consumer feedback before launching their device.”

Despite the excitement surrounding the innovation, skepticism persists among consumers regarding the durability of foldable devices. Many users have reported issues with screen performance and longevity. An individual on the r/Apple forum expressed concerns, stating, “Everyone I know with a foldable phone has screen issues,” highlighting the apprehension surrounding the durability of such devices (CNET, 2025).

The foldable iPhone is expected to alter the competitive landscape of the smartphone market, potentially offering features that distinguish it from existing products. However, experts such as Dr. Michael Chen, a technology analyst at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, caution that Apple must avoid creating a product that is perceived as “a generic, redundant novelty” amid a growing array of foldable options available to consumers.

Looking ahead, the success of the foldable iPhone will hinge on its ability to address the durability concerns that plague current foldable devices while also offering seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem of products. The implications of this launch could reshape consumer expectations for smartphones, emphasizing the need for innovation in design and function as the industry evolves.

In conclusion, while the foldable iPhone presents an exciting development for Apple, the company faces significant challenges in ensuring the device meets consumer expectations for quality and reliability. As the launch date approaches, industry watchers will closely monitor how Apple addresses these issues and positions itself in an increasingly competitive market.