Cupertino eyes 2026 release as new market segment gains momentum
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Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone in 2026, which could bring the tech giant $65 billion (about €56.6 billion) in revenue. The move comes as Apple seeks to revive its growth amid slowing sales and increasing competition. Analysts at JP Morgan predict that the foldable iPhone, with a price tag of $999 (about €869), will be part of the iPhone 18 series and will resemble Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series.
Although Apple has not officially confirmed the launch, JP Morgan is closely monitoring the company and believes that a foldable phone is a natural progression after the current iPhone 17 model. In the past, Apple has succeeded in popularizing existing technologies such as smartwatches and tablets, and analysts expect the same outcome for foldable smartphones. The bank predicts significant market growth in this segment thanks to Apple’s entry.
The foldable iPhone is the most significant redesign since the launch of the original iPhone in 2007. Recent iPhone updates have had less impact and focused on incremental improvements such as battery life and software tweaks. Investors are already looking forward to next year’s lineup, as updates for the upcoming iPhone 17 series are expected to be limited.
The news provides a much-needed boost for Apple, which has been struggling to maintain its rapid growth. The company’s recent product presentation failed to generate excitement about its progress in artificial intelligence, despite its vast hardware and software resources. Apple’s shares have fallen 15 percent since the start of the year and face challenges such as import tariffs on Chinese products and competition from former chief designer Jony Ive, who has joined OpenAI, a rival artificial intelligence company.
Business AM