Apple Could Get A $65 Billion Boost From Foldable iPhone Launch In 2026, Says JPMorgan

JPMorgan said on Tuesday it expects Apple (AAPL) to unveil its first foldable iPhone in September 2026 as part of the iPhone 18 series, which could present a $65 billion market opportunity for Apple.

Apple’s stock edged 0.5% lower in morning trade with retail sentiment on Stockwits dipping lower within ‘bullish’ territory over the past day.

According to a note sent to clients cited by TheFly, JPMorgan said investor focus is already shifting to Apple’s 2026 product cycle, with limited upgrades expected in this year’s iPhone 17 lineup. 

The investment bank sees foldable smartphone shipments expanding from 19 million units in 2025, with Apple’s entry poised to scale the segment significantly. 

It estimates the foldable iPhone – also known as the iPhone Fold and iPhone Flip in the market – will be priced at $1,999, adding up to a $65 billion market opportunity for Apple and contributing high-single-digit earnings accretion over the medium term.

A successful rollout could see Apple sell low-teens millions of foldable units in fiscal 2027, ramping up to the mid-40s million range in fiscal 2028.

While Apple has not yet confirmed plans to launch a foldable iPhone, market watchers expect that the device will have a 7.7-inch unfolded screen with a cover display of 5.49 inches. The tech giant is expected to adopt a book-like fold for the foldable iPhone.

Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes the phone will measure between 9 and 9.5 mm in thickness when folded, and between 4 and 4.5 mm when opened. According to him, the foldable iPhone is likely to be priced “above $2,000 and $2,500.”

Kuo also speculated that Apple is expected to adopt Samsung’s crease-free displays rather than design its own in-house. 

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