Apple is expected to launch its first foldable smartphone in 2026. The device, referred to as iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra in reports, has production of foldable OLED panels scheduled to begin in the second quarter of this year. Samsung Display will be the exclusive supplier of these components for three years.
The company has signed an exclusive supply agreement with Samsung Display. Initial production of panels is expected to reach around 3 million units, according to recent supply chain sources. The launch could take place in the second half of the year, possibly soon after the iPhone 18 Pro line.
Supply agreement and technical details
Samsung Display begins mass manufacturing of the panels in the second quarter of 2026. The agreement covers three generations of the product and prevents the use of other suppliers during this period. The panels use CoE technology, which removes the polarizer and forms a color filter layer over the encapsulation.
Reports indicate that the foldable iPhone will have an internal screen measuring approximately 7.8 inches and an external screen measuring approximately 5.5 inches when closed. The design seeks to reduce or eliminate the visible crease in the fold. The folded thickness is around 4.5 millimeters when opened, according to rendering estimates.
- Production of foldable OLED panels begins in the second quarter of 2026
- Exclusive agreement with Samsung Display for three years
- Approximate 7.8-inch internal screen and 5.5-inch external screen
- Technology that minimizes creases in the fold
Projections for the foldable market
The global market for foldable smartphones is expected to grow by around 30% in 2026. The entry of Apple drives this increase, according to an IDC report. The consultancy projects that the foldable iPhone could capture more than 22% of units sold in the segment in its first year and an even greater proportion in market value.
Other analyzes point out that the device helps to take the foldable format out of its current niche. Apple adopts a cautious initial strategy with moderate production volumes. The estimated price exceeds US$2,000, which targets the product at premium consumers.
Competition with Samsung
Samsung is preparing to launch new foldable models in July 2026, including the Galaxy Z Fold 8, the Galaxy Z Flip 8 and a version Wide with a wider design. Esse model Wide seeks to compete directly with the expected form factor of the foldable iPhone.
Samsung maintains current leadership in the foldable segment. The company has dominated the market for years and uses experience to offer larger screens and varied options. The arrival of Apple in late 2026 could increase general interest in the category.
Apple strategy and challenges
Apple tests the foldable concept with limited production at first. Custos Higher manufacturing and final price limits the potential audience. The company has already evaluated other formats in the past, such as the iPhone Mini, which did not reach expected volume.
Negotiations over materials and costs can influence the exact schedule. The focus is on premium quality, including a thin and efficient display. Analistas indicate that success depends on the format being accepted by a wider audience over time.
The launch should popularize foldable smartphones among users of the iOS ecosystem. The sequence of news from Samsung in July and Apple later creates movement in the segment during the year.