Apple’s Foldable iPhone: A Rumor or Reality?
Recent Vision Pro release gives revealing insight into Apple's typically confidential development process, according to a Vanity Fair interview with Tim Cook last week.
Apple is considering creating a foldable iPhone after the release of the Vision Pro.
Last week, Apple’s release of the Vision Pro shed light on the company’s secretive development process. In a recent Vanity Fair interview, Tim Cook revealed the challenges faced in bringing their first headset to life. He even gave an unflattering nickname, “the monster,” to an early version of the device. But this unveiling has sparked rumors about another ambitious project in the making, a foldable iPhone.
The Foldable iPhone Journey
While foldable iPhones have been rumored before, Apple reportedly put their development on hold due to durability concerns and the notorious foldable crease. Instead, they focused on a folding iPad. However, a new report from The Information suggests that Apple may be back in the foldable iPhone business, after overcoming these setbacks.
The Vanity Fair piece mentioned foldable iPhones as part of a collection of projects that never left the development stage. Apple is known for shelving ambitious ideas that don’t meet their standards, with exceptions like the ill-fated AirPower. So, whether this foldable iPhone becomes a reality is still uncertain.
The History of Foldables
Apple has been mulling over foldables for quite some time. It all started back in 2018, a year before Samsung released the Galaxy Fold, the first viable foldable smartphone. However, even Samsung faced launch issues, emphasizing that lab testing can only take you so far. Over the years, the foldable category has matured, with Samsung and other companies like Huawei, Oppo/OnePlus, Motorola (Lenovo), and Google joining in.
Durability Concerns: A Thing of the Past?
In the early days, foldables faced durability issues, making consumers skeptical. However, the technology has advanced considerably, and many of these issues have been addressed. Although foldables might not withstand the same wear and tear as traditional smartphones, they are far more resilient now. But for Apple, surpassing the competition in durability is crucial if they plan to enter the foldables market.
Apple’s Fresh Approach
Like with previous groundbreaking products such as the iPhone and AirPods, Apple aims to bring something unique to the table. They need to believe they are introducing a fresh concept before launching a new product line. Better drop-testing results, elimination of the foldable crease, or other innovations could be on the horizon. Whatever the case, consumers may have to wait until 2026 to get their hands on an Apple foldable device.
A Drop in the Smartphone Bucket
While foldables have created excitement in the smartphone market, they are still a niche category. According to IDC, foldable shipments were expected to reach just over 21 million in 2023, with a projection of 48.1 million by 2027. Although it sounds significant, it’s a small fraction compared to the 1.17 billion smartphones shipped globally in 2023. So, foldables may continue to grow, but it’s unclear what the landscape will look like in 2026.
Which Form Factor Will Apple Choose?
Apple prototypes have explored different versions of a foldable iPhone. However, the consensus appears to lean toward a clamshell design, similar to the Galaxy Flip. The clamshell model offers more portability, as these devices spend more time folded than unfolded. The rumored plan is to have an eight-inch main display, larger than the current competition. It remains to be seen how Apple will balance size and functionality to appeal to their target audience.
Legitimizing the Market
Apple’s entry into the foldables market would undoubtedly have a significant impact. The company has a proven track record of revolutionizing existing categories, with products like the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and AirPods. Their presence alone brings legitimacy to the foldables market. While the Vision Pro’s reception is still uncertain, speculation suggests Apple could make a significant difference in foldable adoption.
The Battle for the Foldables Market
For now, Samsung dominates the foldables market, accounting for an estimated 60-70% share. However, Apple’s potential entry could change the game. Analysts project the foldables market to grow, but the exact forecast of 48.1 million devices by 2027 could be subject to Apple’s impact.
🤔 Q&A: What Else Do You Want to Know About Apple’s Foldable iPhone?
Q1: Will the foldable iPhone be more expensive than other flagship smartphones? A1: It’s likely that Apple’s foldable iPhone will have a higher price tag, similar to their other flagship devices. However, it’s unlikely to reach the exorbitant prices of $3,500 like some current foldable options.
Q2: How does Apple’s entry into the foldables market affect other manufacturers? A2: Apple’s presence in any market has a profound effect on the competition. Their entry into foldables will undoubtedly push other manufacturers to innovate to stay relevant.
Q3: Are foldable smartphones becoming mainstream? A3: While foldables have gained popularity, they are still considered a niche category. However, as technology advances and prices become more affordable, we may see increased adoption in the future.
The Future of Foldables
Foldable devices are still in their early stages, with much left to discover. Apple’s entry into the foldables market will undoubtedly shape its trajectory and impact the industry as a whole. Only time will tell if they can replicate the revolutionary success of their previous breakthrough products. In the meantime, we eagerly await Apple’s next move.
References: – Vision Pro Release – Vanity Fair Interview – The Information Report – IDC’s Foldable Shipments Projection – Europe’s VC Funding Landscape
