Apple Foldable iPhone Set to Ship 10 Million Units in First Year
Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone market is expected to be a significant one, with research firm IDC estimating that over 10 million units of its first foldable iPhone will ship in the first year. The device, set to launch in September, will mark Apple's foray into this segment, which Samsung Electronics introduced seven years ago.
IDC forecasts that the passport-style phone will carry a price tag of $2,500, but senior research director Nabila Popal expects it to be widely successful despite its high cost. 'A very elite set of consumers are being targeted here, who will be lining up to buy the device,' she said.
The foldable category is currently a small market segment, with IDC projecting it to grow 12.6% this year and 18% next year. Apple is expected to capture 40% of all foldable shipments in 2027, according to IDC.