$AAPL May Finally Have a $2,000 Reason to Enter the Foldable Market

Apple may be closer to entering the foldable smartphone market as the technology becomes more reliable, polished, and familiar to consumers. Earlier analyst estimates from Ming-Chi Kuo pointed to a potential late-2026 launch for Apple’s first foldable iPhone, with a price above $2,000.
That price could create a new ultra-premium tier alongside the existing iPhone lineup, potentially lifting average selling prices without directly replacing current models. Apple could also benefit from entering after competitors spent years improving displays, hinges, durability, and software.
The biggest risk is that foldables remain a niche category due to high prices, bulkier designs, and limited mass-market demand. For Apple, the product would need to offer more than a flexible screen, with software and functionality that give customers a compelling reason to upgrade.