iPhone Fold Rumors: Affordable Price and Ultra-Thin Hardware.

New rumors suggest Apple's foldable iPhone could have a more affordable price of $1,800, compared to the expected $2,000+ and be thinner (4.8mm) when unfolded, surpassing the current thinnest Apple product, the 13-inch M4 iPad Pro. Analyst Ming Chi-Kuo previously predicted a price above $2,000 and $2,500.

New rumors suggest that Apple's upcoming foldable iPhone could be more affordable and thinner than initially expected. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously predicted a price range of $2,000 to $2,500, but recent reports indicate that the device could be priced around $1,800 [1]. This is significantly lower than Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7, which retails for $1,999.99.

The foldable iPhone is expected to be thinner when unfolded, with a thickness of 4.8mm, surpassing the current thinnest Apple product, the 13-inch M4 iPad Pro [2]. This could make the device more appealing to consumers who value portability and design.

Apple has chosen Samsung's "crease-free" display solution to ensure mass production of the foldable iPhone. This decision is expected to benefit Samsung-aligned suppliers, such as Fine M-Tec, which will provide display metal plates crucial for reducing screen creases during folding [2]. The initial production of the folding iPhone is estimated to be limited, with estimates of 10 million to 15 million units in 2026 [1].

The lower price and thinner design could make the foldable iPhone more accessible to a wider range of consumers. However, the high price point and technical complexity of foldable devices are seen as major hurdles to mass adoption [1]. Apple's strategic decision to use Samsung's crease-free screen technology could influence its market position and financial performance in the coming years.

References:
[1] https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/iphone-fold-could-cheaper-expected-170900526.html
[2] https://www.gizbot.com/mobile/features/apple-usd-2500-foldable-iphone-got-game-changing-upgrade-and-samsung-is-behind-it-116651.html