Foldable iPhone Unlikely to Launch Before 2027

[MacRumors]

Apple is unlikely to release a foldable iPhone before 2027, but it could significantly disrupt the market when it launches, according to Taiwanese research firm TrendForce.

The report highlights that foldable phones currently represent a mere 1.5% of the smartphone market, with projections suggesting an increase to 4.8% by 2028. Apple is apparently "still evaluating component specifications and performance, with strict requirements for crease and reliability." Screen creasing is an issue that plagues many current foldable devices, raising concerns about long-term durability and the risk of screen damage from debris.

Despite the emergence of a range of popular foldable devices from the likes of Samsung, Huawei, Motorola, and Nubia, Apple's delayed entry to the foldable space is not necessarily a disadvantage. The company's significant market influence and established customer base mean that a foldable iPhone could quickly gain popularity upon release. As a result, analysts believe that Apple's entry into the foldable phone space could "significantly shift market dynamics."

Apple is widely expected to release a large-screen foldable iPad or MacBook to kick-off its foray into the product category before launching a higher volume foldable iPhone.

Article Link: Foldable iPhone Unlikely to Launch Before 2027

 

[G5isAlive]

A foldable phone definitely is one of those I need to see it before I buy into it thing. I can see (pun intended) how it could be a good thing, but not if clunky like the current offerings from Samsung.

 

[alexandr]

Maybe by that time the foldable phone hysteria will pass...)

 

[Darth Tulhu]

Would love to see it, but ain't getting it.

I'm good with fixed-screen devices.

Now bring that SPECTACULAR iPad Pro OLED to iPhone, Apple.

 

[jz0309]

I’d be open to get one, but, Apple is WAY behind here, another 3 years of missed opportunities

 

[Gloor]

It won't disrupt anything. Foldable phones is DOA idea.
The sooner it dies the better

 

[Yimbaz]

Yeah, it’ll come out right after the Apple 3DTV set and the Apple Netbook.

 

[MayaUser]

next year= Foldable iPhone Unlikely to Launch Before 2028

 

[Tyler O'Bannon]

My body is ready.

I hope it has Apple Pencil support. For non illustrators like myself, that would completely omit the need for an iPad.

 

[TruthWatcher412]

Glad they're not just jumping in on the hype and hopefully they wait until they get it right to release. Not sure I'd get one or not but still cool to see how it goes.

 

[Octavius8]

I have tried some foldable phones. I NEED one from Apple. Can’t understand why Apple has not been able to develop one, it seems Apple has no capability or desires since there is no Chinese competitors anymore for apple, there is no need to innovate I guess. Good for the consumer!

 

[spazzcat]

I need to get into this business, day one make up a random rumor; day two make a new rumor that day one rumor isn't going to happen.

 

[mike.coulter]

I'm likely to hold onto my iPad mini until then so the timing could work out perfectly. AppleCare might be a good idea though.

 

[spazzcat]

I have tried some foldable phones. I NEED one from Apple. Can’t understand why Apple has not been able to develop one, it seems Apple has no capability or desires since there is no Chinese competitors anymore for apple, there is no need to innovate I guess. Good for the consumer!

Because the technology isn't there yet. I don't see Apple making one until they can do it without it forming a crease on the screen.

 

[Icehawk]

Brick phones. to flip phones. To smartphones. To big smartphones. To flip smartphones. Wow.

 

[Octavius8]

As you can’t try it, watch videos about the H. Brand from China, model x3 or x5. Almost as thin as a Pro max, but multi screen

 

[Tomasulu]

If it even got out the gate, it will be exorbitant. And it will be another niche product like the Vision Pro. In other words a failed product that doesn’t move the needle. Why bother?

 

[spinedoc77]

Foldables have progressed quite a bit since their inception, can't wait to see Apple's take on them eventually. Although maybe something between now and then will supplant them like AR or a different type of expanding screen paradigm.

 

[JoeShades]

Foldables have progressed quite a bit since their inception, can't wait to see Apple's take on them eventually. Although maybe something between now and then will supplant them like AR or a different type of expanding screen paradigm.

Inception, you mean 30 years ago?

 

[Victor Mortimer]

I really wish this nonsense would end.

Foldable screens are a really stupid idea. There's no currently existing material that allows a screen to fold and is sufficiently durable for a phone. All foldable phones have ugly creases within a week, the screens delaminate and look horrible very quickly.

 

[Sirious]

They need to sort out the notch business on the MacBooks first!

 

[california_kid]

This is just Apple's attempt to put all those 3rd party screen protector makes out of business.

 

[nfl46]

This is great timing for two reasons:

1) The Pro line will likely be all screen by then with the camera underneath it

2) By then, the crease will be non-existent and the screens will be even better than they are now.

Bonus: Apple gets to sell an even higher price iPhone to add to the lineup. Lol.

 

[IllegitimateValor]

I think that puts the foldable iPhone in the timeline after eliminating the notch/cutout. That’s essential. Also should have a camera on each corner and built in slot for pencil.

 

[Simon89]

This ain’t ever becoming a reality