According to recent reports, Apple is working on two foldable products: a clamshell iPhone and a large 20-inch foldable iPad. However, many signs point to the foldable iPhone being expected to be released first.
Apple's first foldable iPhone is expected to have a clamshell design, similar to the Galaxy Z Flip or Motorola Razr. When opened, the screen will be the size of a regular phone but can be folded to fit easily in a pocket.
According to The Wall Street Journal, this foldable iPhone will have a larger screen than the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which is about 7 inches. In addition, Apple is also developing another device with a screen that expands up to 19 inches, aiming to replace laptops.
However, the development of a foldable iPhone is not simple. Apple is facing challenges in reducing the visibility of the crease on the screen, improving the hinge system and finding the right material for the screen coating.
While the foldable device market grew an impressive 40% annually from 2019 to 2023, it is expected to slow down significantly. According to Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), the market growth will slow to around 5% in 2024 and could decline to 4% in 2025, with demand remaining at 22 million units.
However, Apple’s entry is expected to breathe new life into this stagnant market. Many users are excited about the idea of products like the Galaxy Z Flip but are still reluctant to give up their iPhones. Apple can take advantage of this to bring innovative features to attract more users.
According to many sources, the foldable iPhone is expected to be launched in the second half of 2026, along with the iPhone 18 series. This shows that the product has passed the initial testing phase and is in the process of completion. With the project code V68 recently assigned by Apple, it can be expected that the foldable iPhone will appear on the market soon.
