Will Samsung be immediately dethroned by the foldable iPhone?

According to the latest estimates from IDC, the foldable iPhone, expected to debut at the end of 2026, should capture 22% of the foldable market in terms of volume and 34% in terms of revenue, thanks in particular to its significantly high price, around $2,400 according to the latest projections. Apple could thus dominate its competitors, notably the pioneer Samsung, from its very arrival on the market. Foldable iPhone, according to Francisco Jeronimo, Vice President of Customer Devices at IDC: "The launch of Apple's first foldable iPhone will mark a turning point for the foldable device segment," said Francisco Jeronimo, Vice President of Customer Devices at IDC. "This initiative should increase the visibility of the category and stimulate consumer interest. Apple tends to be a catalyst for the mainstream adoption of new categories." Although foldable smartphones remain a niche segment in terms of volume, they will become a significant value driver for most manufacturers offering foldable models, as average selling prices will be three times higher than those of a standard smartphone. The foldable smartphone market is expected to grow by 30% in 2026, primarily due to Apple's entry into the market, but also with a contribution from Samsung's new Galaxy Z Trifold, expected to launch in the US early next year. And, according to IDC, growth in this market segment is expected to remain significantly higher than that of the non-foldable smartphone market.