The Foldable iPhone will be Boring but Still Beat Samsung

Apple enthusiasts have long awaited the arrival of a folding iPhone, and it seems that their patience will soon be rewarded. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, a trusted source of Apple news, has revealed that the first foldable iPhone is set to be unveiled by the end of next year. This device is expected to feature an iPhone-sized cover display that opens up to reveal a tablet screen reminiscent of a small iPad.

The concept of a foldable iPhone may sound familiar, as Samsung and other competitors have already introduced similar devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Honor Magic V5, and Oppo Find N5. In 2025, the folding phone market has matured, with devices pushing the boundaries of engineering and design. Apple, typically known for setting trends, finds itself lagging behind in this emerging market.

Gurman’s insights suggest that Apple’s foldable iPhone may not offer anything groundbreaking. In fact, it is expected to resemble the Galaxy Z Fold 7 in design and core components, with even the flexible OLED display possibly being sourced from Samsung Display. While the lack of innovation may disappoint some, Apple still holds potential to outshine its competitors.

Despite the similarities to existing foldable devices, there are reasons to be excited about the foldable iPhone. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 has demonstrated impressive engineering by seamlessly combining two displays into one thin and lightweight device. Apple’s adoption of a similar design could lead to a seamless user experience.

One area where Apple may have an edge over its competitors is in software. The iPadOS offers a unique software experience that no other tablet can match, with a wide range of apps optimized for the larger display. This advantage could translate well to the foldable iPhone, offering a seamless transition between the cover and internal displays.

While the foldable iPhone may attract die-hard Apple fans who are reluctant to switch to Android for a foldable device, there may be a sting in the tale. Gurman suggests that the foldable iPhone could come with a hefty price tag of at least $2,000, putting it in line with the Galaxy Z Fold 7. This high price point may limit its appeal to mainstream consumers.

In conclusion, the upcoming foldable iPhone holds promise in terms of design and software integration. While it may not bring anything radically new to the table, Apple’s loyal fan base and strong software ecosystem could give it an edge in the competitive folding phone market. However, the high price of the device could be a barrier to widespread adoption.