Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone market, rumored for 2026 with a clamshell-style iPhone, is predicted to reignite interest in the currently stagnating foldable space, according to display analyst Ross Young.
Young reports a slowdown in the foldable market, with even market leader Samsung seeing slower adoption rates for its recent devices. He believes Apple's dominance in the premium smartphone segment could generate renewed enthusiasm for foldables.
However, the lukewarm reception to some of Apple's recent innovations, like Apple Intelligence, raises questions about whether a foldable iPhone will truly capture consumer interest. Some argue a clamshell foldable, similar to the Samsung Z Flip6 (currently $999 on Amazon ), might be perceived as a gimmick. A foldable iPad, offering both large screen real estate and portability, could potentially be more appealing.
Despite these concerns, Young remains optimistic, forecasting over 30% market growth for foldables in 2026, driven by Apple's anticipated entry.
