Apple has been long rumored to be developing off its own foldable smartphone dubbed the iPhone Fold. From all accounts, this device is expected to be the most expensive iPhone yet released. The device is currently scheduled for 2026 launch, although that date could easily slip to 2027 or 2028. It’s billed as an engineering marvel meets the wonders of technology, offering a foldable screen with an outer display. Recent analyses suggest that the iPhone Fold will carry a price tag lower than previously speculated, making it potentially more accessible than expected.
That would put the predicted price range for the iPhone Fold at somewhere between $1,800 and $2,000, according to a recent report from UBS. This equates to a very impressive contribution margin of 53% to 58% from its BOM (bill of materials) cost. The new lower pricing approach is a big departure from past expectations to charge far higher. Initial estimates had the device ranging from $2,000 to $2,300 given tariffs on all imports to the United States. This surprising move in price structure is very much in keeping with the company’s strategy over the last several years of introducing premium devices at value tiers.
Features and Engineering
Foldable Dual Screen
Enjoy the advantages of a large screen with the innovative foldable display of iPhone Fold. It accomplishes all of this without being overly bulky or cumbersome. The outer screen takes it even further with added usability, allowing you to quickly check notifications and use your favorite apps without opening up the device. This highly unconventional design requires equally creative engineering solutions, which Apple has built its reputation on executing.
Apple’s track record for introducing premium new technology has been a slam dunk. Like the time before they announced the Vision Pro headset that starts at $3,500 – after the last Mac Pro. The iPhone Fold’s engineering challenges are expected to be met with Apple’s customary expertise, ensuring that the end product meets consumer expectations for quality and performance.
Market Positioning
The pricing strategy for the iPhone Fold reflects Apple’s ongoing efforts to remain competitive in the foldable smartphone market, particularly against rivals like Samsung. We would expect contribution margins for this new device to be consistent with Samsung’s general foldable lineup. They ought to be closely aligned with margins coming off the recently unveiled iPhone 16 line.
As Nick Lichtenberg wrote for Fortune, that was just the tip of UBS’s iceberg of good news. He hinted that Apple is using advanced new tech, but is using careful price-pointing to bring in the widest audience. The shift towards a lower price tag may signal Apple’s response to market demands for high-quality foldable phones at more accessible prices.
