Apple is reportedly waiting to release its foldable iPhone until Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold matures.
People are finally embracing the foldable form factor. Or so it seems.
**Foldable Phone Market**
*Release Dates*
Foldable iPhone: Expected 2026
Samsung Galaxy Fold: February 2019
Huawei Mate X2: February 2021
Honor Magic V: January 2022
Xiaomi Mix Fold: March 2021
Oppo Find N: December 2021
Vivo X Fold: April 2022
The release of a foldable iPhone is anticipated, potentially after the success of Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7.
**Galaxy Z Fold 7 Sales**
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 has achieved significant sales, prompting analysis of its success.
Apple's capacity to produce a foldable iPhone is not in question. The company may have strategically waited for the foldable market to mature to minimize financial risk. This approach mirrors Apple's approach to AI, although its AI developments have faced criticism.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7, launched in July, has already demonstrated strong sales.
The device has become Samsung's best-selling foldable in Western Europe, exceeding 250,000 units in four weeks.
These sales suggest growing mainstream acceptance of foldable phones.
Galaxy Z Fold 7 sales are more than double those of the Fold 6 and approximately 70% higher than the Fold 4. Upgrades in the Fold 7 are seen as driving this trend.
The Z Fold 7's design and durability, despite not having a huge battery, may justify its $2,000 starting price.
**Foldable iPhone Details**
The foldable iPhone is also expected to be a premium device priced around $2,000.
Rumors suggest a 7.8-inch internal screen with minimal crease and a 5.5-inch external display, with different proportions than the Galaxy Z Fold 7. Apple is reportedly testing titanium hinge materials.
The device is expected to use Apple's A20 chipset, potentially improving speed and energy efficiency. A 5,000-5,500 mAh battery, combined with iOS power management, could enhance battery life. It might feature an under-display selfie camera on the inner screen and a front-facing camera on the outer display.
The foldable iPhone could be slightly thicker than the Z Fold 7 but might include a larger battery.
Apple's ecosystem integration, including iPad-like multitasking and Apple Pencil support, would be a key feature.
Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7 could be a catalyst for Apple's entry into the foldable market.
**Iconic Phones Book**
"Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips," a book about the history of phones, will be released this fall. It features over 20 phones and is available for early discount.