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Apple (AAPL) has long been rumored to be developing a foldable iPhone, and the latest reports suggest the technology giant might finalize its specifications by the second quarter of the year. Mass production is likely to start in the fourth quarter of 2026, with the first shipments between 3 million to 5 million. By 2027, shipments could be up to 20 million, which will be Apple’s much-awaited entry into the market for foldable smartphones.
Despite the excitement generated by the prospect of the release, production challenges and high expected costs can be limiting factors in the initial take-up. Kuo quotes the price of the foldable iPhone at more than $2,000, which is much higher than current iPhone prices. Apple will be able to leverage its brand loyalty to create demand, provided the device is satisfactory in quality as well as performance.