Apple Raises iPhone Fold Expectations: 8-10 Million Units in 2026 and 20-25 Million in 2027

Apple has reportedly raised shipment expectations for its first iPhone Fold to 8-10 million units in 2026 and 20-25 million in 2027, up from previous estimates of 6-8 million and 10-15 million, respectively. This significant increase suggests that the company believes consumers are ready for foldables to go mainstream.

Apple has reportedly increased its shipment expectations for the first iPhone Fold, indicating a significant belief in the mainstream potential of foldable devices. According to a recent analyst note by Ming-Chi Kuo [1], Apple has revised its projections for the 2026 and 2027 models. The new estimates suggest 8-10 million units in 2026 and 20-25 million units in 2027, a substantial increase from the previous estimates of 6-8 million and 10-15 million, respectively.

The shift in expectations highlights Apple's confidence in the market's readiness for foldable technology. While the price point remains a potential barrier to widespread adoption, the company's track record of innovation and consumer interest in foldables suggest a strong demand for the product.

The increase in shipment expectations comes at a time when Apple is preparing to unveil the iPhone 17 lineup. The iPhone Fold, expected to be the most exciting model in the 2026 iPhone 18 lineup, is likely to be a key driver of Apple's future growth. The company's ability to successfully launch and market this new product will be critical in maintaining its competitive edge in the smartphone market.

In addition to the iPhone Fold, Apple's recent earnings report [2] showed strong performance across its iPhone and Services segments. The company's iPhone business generated $44.6 billion in revenue in Q3, with China sales growing 4.35% year-over-year. The Services segment, now the second-largest revenue driver, reached a record $27.4 billion, up 13% from last year.

However, Apple faces challenges in its AI strategy, with competitors like Microsoft and Alphabet accelerating their AI rollouts. The company's delayed Siri upgrades and loss of AI experts to Meta Platforms have raised concerns about its ability to innovate in this critical area.

Overall, Apple's increased shipment expectations for the iPhone Fold indicate a significant belief in the market's readiness for foldable devices. While the company faces challenges in AI, its strong fundamentals in iPhone and Services revenue, along with a loyal global user base, suggest a promising outlook for the future.

References:
[1] https://9to5mac.com/2025/09/02/apple-is-already-raising-iphone-fold-expectations-in-a-big-way-per-report/
[2] https://www.tradingnews.com/news/apple-stock-forecast-nasdq-aapl-at-232-usd