Apple is preparing one of its most ambitious product launches yet: the Apple foldable iPhone. According to industry reports, the company targets sales of up to 25 million units by 2027. This signals Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market, a space currently dominated by Samsung, Huawei, and other Asian manufacturers. The arrival of an Apple foldable iPhone could redefine consumer expectations, reshape global competition, and accelerate adoption of foldable technology worldwide.

Apple’s Strategy Behind the Foldable iPhone

Apple is known for its deliberate approach to product innovation. Rather than being the first to introduce foldable smartphones, Apple has chosen to observe market dynamics, consumer feedback, and technology maturity before committing to its own design. The foldable market is still relatively niche compared to the overall smartphone industry, but it has demonstrated strong growth in recent years.

By 2027, Apple expects the foldable smartphone segment to mature, and its entry could unlock demand among premium consumers who trust Apple’s brand and ecosystem. Analysts believe that Apple aims to position the foldable iPhone as both a functional device and a status symbol, integrating cutting-edge hardware with iOS software optimization.

With a sales target of 25 million units, Apple is not merely testing the market. Instead, it is betting that foldables will transition from being experimental gadgets to mainstream devices in the premium category.

Competitive Landscape and Market Impact

Samsung currently leads the foldable smartphone market with its Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip series. Huawei, Oppo, and Xiaomi also compete aggressively, particularly in Asia. However, none of these brands enjoy the global brand loyalty and ecosystem lock-in that Apple commands.

The Apple foldable iPhone could disrupt this landscape dramatically. Analysts forecast that once Apple launches its foldable model, the global foldable smartphone market could experience double-digit annual growth, pushing overall shipments past 60 million units by 2028.

Moreover, Apple’s entry will likely influence pricing strategies. While Samsung’s foldables range between $900 and $1,800, Apple could introduce its device at a premium price point exceeding $2,000, leveraging its reputation for luxury positioning. This pricing strategy would also help Apple maintain its high profit margins while expanding into a new segment.

Beyond sales, the launch will affect component suppliers, manufacturing partners, and app developers. Foldable screens, reinforced hinges, and advanced batteries will drive demand across Apple’s supply chain, while app developers will be encouraged to optimize applications for foldable experiences.

Consumer Expectations and Technological Innovations

Consumers expect more than just a folding screen from Apple. Industry insiders suggest the foldable iPhone will feature advanced OLED or microLED displays, seamless hinge mechanisms, and integration with Apple’s broader ecosystem, including the iPad, MacBook, and Apple Watch.

Durability will be a key focus. Early foldable devices from competitors faced criticism for screen fragility and hinge wear. Apple’s strategy will likely involve extensive testing and possibly unique patents to ensure that the foldable iPhone matches the reliability standards expected from the brand.

In addition, the foldable design could enhance multitasking, allowing users to run multiple apps simultaneously or transition smoothly between smartphone and tablet modes. This would particularly appeal to professionals and creators who demand productivity tools in portable formats.

Economic Implications of Apple’s Foldable iPhone

The Apple foldable iPhone is not just a technological milestone but also an economic catalyst. With a target of 25 million units, the revenue impact could exceed $50 billion by 2027, assuming an average selling price of $2,000 per unit. This would represent a significant share of Apple’s overall iPhone revenue, which remains its largest business segment.

For emerging markets like Indonesia, India, and Southeast Asia, Apple’s foldable iPhone could further strengthen consumer aspiration for premium devices, even if initial adoption is concentrated in high-income segments. Telecom operators and retailers in these regions may prepare by offering installment plans, trade-in programs, and bundled services to make the devices more accessible.

Global supply chains will also benefit. Companies producing foldable displays, hinges, and protective materials are expected to see a surge in demand. This ripple effect will extend to semiconductor firms, logistics providers, and retail distributors.

Challenges and Risks Ahead

Despite the excitement, Apple faces several challenges. First, consumer adoption of foldable phones remains limited compared to traditional smartphones. Apple must convince its user base that foldables are not just a novelty but a practical long-term choice.

Second, the high price point could limit accessibility. While Apple has succeeded with premium pricing in the past, the foldable iPhone will test how much consumers are willing to pay for innovation.

Finally, global economic conditions, such as inflation, interest rates, and consumer spending power, will influence overall demand. If economic growth slows, the adoption of high-priced foldables may take longer than projected.

The Apple foldable iPhone represents a defining moment in the evolution of smartphones. With a sales target of 25 million units by 2027, Apple is signaling strong confidence in consumer demand and the maturity of foldable technology. Its entry into this market is expected to reshape competition, accelerate innovation, and redefine what premium smartphones can deliver.

As anticipation builds, the world will be watching closely to see if Apple can once again set a new standard in consumer electronics. For now, one thing is clear: the foldable iPhone is not just another device, but a statement of Apple’s vision for the future of mobile technology.