Apple's Foldable iPhone: Catching Up in the Market with a Refinement Strategy

Apple is set to enter the foldable phone market with a device expected to launch by the end of 2026. The design will resemble Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series, with Samsung Display supplying the OLED screens. Apple's focus will be on refining existing technology and enhancing the user experience. The foldable iPhone is likely to appeal to the Chinese market, with a starting price of $2,000.

Apple is poised to enter the foldable phone market with a device expected to launch by the end of 2026. The design is anticipated to closely resemble Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series, with Samsung Display supplying the OLED screens. This strategic move marks Apple's first foray into foldable technology, and the company aims to refine existing technology and enhance the user experience.

According to Ming-Chi Kuo, a prominent Apple analyst, Apple will adopt a "crease-free display solution" from Samsung Display, rather than developing its own design [1]. This decision is expected to facilitate smooth mass production of the new device. The internal hinges for the foldable iPhone will be manufactured by Fine M-Tec, a South Korean company, which will expand its production capacity in Vietnam to meet the demand [2].

The foldable iPhone is likely to appeal to the Chinese market, with a starting price of around $2,000. This price point aligns with the pricing strategy of Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series. Apple has traditionally been secretive about its future product plans, but industry leaks have revealed key details about the upcoming device.

Analysts project that Apple's foldable iPhone could contribute to significant growth for suppliers like Fine M-Tec and Lens Technology. According to a report from Citi analysts, Lens Technology, a Chinese glass maker, is expected to see its revenue grow by 5% in 2026 and 12% in 2027 due to the potential foldable iPhone launch [3]. This indicates that Apple's entry into the foldable phone market could have a substantial impact on the supply chain.

The launch of the foldable iPhone is part of Apple's broader strategy to innovate and adapt to changing market demands. By leveraging Samsung's proven foldable display technology, Apple aims to deliver a high-quality product that meets the expectations of its customers.

References:
[1] https://fortune.com/2025/07/16/apple-iphone-foldable-display-samsung-2026-release-date/
[2] https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=1286428
[3] https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/20/if-apple-makes-a-foldable-phone-analysts-say-this-stock-will-benefit.html