The launch of the first foldable iPhone could have an impact not only on Apple’s sales, but also on the entire market for foldable smartphones. According to a forecast by Counterpoint Research, the average price of such devices will rise by 18% in 2026 to reach $1,485.
Analysts attribute this to a shift in the market structure. Whilst clamshell-style foldable smartphones are gradually becoming cheaper due to increased competition, book-style models continue to become more expensive. Manufacturers are equipping them with larger displays, higher-capacity batteries, improved hinges and cameras, and are positioning them as devices for productive work.
It is this category that the first foldable iPhone – also referred to online as the iPhone Ultra – is expected to belong to.
According to Counterpoint’s forecast, in 2026 the share of foldable smartphones priced between $1,600 and $2,000 will almost double – from 30% to 58% of the market. At the same time, there will be slightly fewer models costing more than $2,000 – their share will fall from 3% to 2%.
Counterpoint also believes that Apple’s entry will accelerate the development of the foldable smartphone segment itself. Analysts expect that competition will force manufacturers to focus more actively on app continuity, software and productivity features, making such devices more appealing to a wider audience.
Read also: Apple plans to produce around 10 million foldable iPhone Ultra models
The first photo of the foldable Apple iPhone Ultra
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