Rumours about Apple’s first foldable iPhone have been circulating for months, but JPMorgan’s latest analysis offers the clearest forecast regarding its launch date and pricing. According to JPMorgan experts, Apple plans to unveil its first foldable iPhone in September 2026 as part of the iPhone 18 series.
Apple is gearing up to release the iPhone 17 series in just over a month, but market expectations suggest this year’s models will offer only incremental updates. As a result, investors and tech enthusiasts are turning their focus toward Apple’s major innovations slated for 2026.
iPhone Fold 5G Launch Expected in 2026, Apple's First Foldable Phone Could Cost Rs 1.74 lakhhttps://t.co/VWE3LYda9Z
— Republic (@republic) July 30, 2025
In a market research update to investors, JPMorgan analyst Samik Chatterjee confirmed growing speculation that Apple will enter the foldable smartphone market next year. “With limited upgrades expected for the iPhone 17 series this fall, investor attention has shifted to the 2026 lineup, where Apple plans to introduce a foldable iPhone featuring a book-style fold similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series,” Chatterjee wrote.
Apple could be set to release an entirely new iPhone design as part of its lineup in the second half of next year, according to JPMorgan. https://t.co/i9anLznd84
— CNBC (@CNBC) July 29, 2025
JPMorgan projects that fiscal year 2027 foldable iPhone shipments will start in the low teens of millions, growing to the mid-40 millions by fiscal 2029. This is a notable milestone given that foldable smartphone sales currently stand at approximately 19 million devices worldwide for 2025.
Apple’s First Foldable iPhone Could Launch in 2026 at $1,999https://t.co/txts9gglyC
— iGeeksBlog (@igeeksblog) July 30, 2025
Pricing for the foldable iPhone is estimated at around $1,999, marking a slight decrease from earlier predictions that ranged between $2,100 and $2,300. The device will reportedly feature a 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.8-inch inward-folding main screen with an almost creaseless design. It’s also expected to include a titanium frame and a robust hinge mechanism for durability.
This launch could signify a significant evolution in Apple’s smartphone lineup, offering consumers a cutting-edge device that blends innovation with premium design.