Wall Street analysts expect Apple to release its first foldable iPhone this fall [1, 2, 3].
The move represents a significant shift for the company, which has refrained from entering the foldable market while competitors expanded their offerings. A successful rollout could redefine the premium smartphone segment and push the boundaries of mobile hardware engineering.
Noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and other industry observers said the device may arrive around September 2024 [1, 2]. This timing aligns with Apple's traditional autumn hardware cycle, though some reports indicate the launch window remains fluid [2, 4].
Financial projections for the new hardware suggest a premium pricing strategy. Analysts said the foldable iPhone is expected to retail between $2,000 and $2,500 [1]. This puts the device in a luxury bracket, significantly higher than standard iPhone models.
However, there are conflicting reports regarding the actual availability of the phone. Some analysts project a September 2024 launch [2], while other reports suggest the device may not hit store shelves until months after the iPhone 18 launch [3].
Technical hurdles also remain a point of contention among experts. Some reports indicate that engineering issues could push the release back by several months [4]. Other analysts said the fall release remains the primary expectation without mentioning major delays [2].
Apple has not officially confirmed the specifications or the release date of the foldable device. The company typically maintains strict secrecy regarding new product categories until the official unveiling event.
“Apple’s first foldable iPhone is expected to be released this fall”
The introduction of a foldable iPhone would mark Apple's transition from a follower to a competitor in the flexible-screen market. By pricing the device above $2,000, Apple is positioning the foldable not as a mass-market replacement, but as a high-end luxury productivity tool. The discrepancy in launch dates suggests that while the software may be ready, the company is likely weighing the risks of engineering flaws against the pressure to meet the 2024 holiday window.
