Introduction

In a recent note to investors shared by Barclays analyst Tim Long, the tech world is buzzing with the shocking revelation that Apple’s first foldable iPhone may carry a staggering starting price of approximately $2,300 in the United States, positioning it as the priciest iPhone model to date.

Comparative Pricing

To put this into perspective, if the foldable iPhone launches at $2,299, it will almost double the price of the current iPhone 16 Pro Max, which starts at a comparatively modest $1,199. This leap in pricing has sparked debates about market reception, as the high cost could significantly dampen sales volume.

Insights from Analysts

Long’s pricing insight comes after a recent expedition to Asia where discussions with hardware manufacturers intensified around the anticipated launch of the foldable device. The current projection places the release window around late 2026 to early 2027. However, the exorbitant price tag may limit its accessibility to a select group of consumers.

This sentiment is echoed by another renowned Apple analyst, Ming-Chi Kuo, who estimates the foldable iPhone's price to range between $2,000 and $2,500. Despite the steep cost, Kuo still envisions a solid market demand, contingent upon Apple's ability to deliver a device that meets high-quality standards. A pivotal feature that could sway potential buyers is a foldable screen devoid of a visible crease—a significant technological achievement.

Speculated Features

Speculations about the device's specifications suggest that the foldable iPhone might feature a generous 7.8-inch inner display paired with a 5.5-inch outer display. The camera setup is expected to include two rear cameras, one front camera, and a Touch ID power button in lieu of Face ID, along with a high-density battery for enhanced performance. Notably, when unfolded, the device is anticipated to be as thin as 4.5mm and between 9mm and 9.5mm when folded. Rumors also hint at a chic titanium exterior, with the hinge made from a mix of titanium and stainless steel for durability.

Production Timeline

Kuo also mentions that mass production for the foldable iPhone is expected to kick off in the fourth quarter of 2026, setting the stage for a groundbreaking entry into the competitive foldable smartphone market.

Conclusion

As excitement builds, potential buyers should be aware that these pricing and product details remain speculative for now, with Apple still over a year and a half away from unveiling this innovative device. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into the world of foldable technology and its implications for the future of smartphones!