Apple is reportedly planning to release a foldable iPhone as early as next year, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. This move would bring Apple in line with competitors like Samsung, Motorola, and Google who have already entered the foldable phone market. Kuo, known for accurate Apple product predictions, shared this update recently.

It is speculated that Apple's first foldable phone may utilize a display manufactured by Samsung Display, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics. Reports suggest that Samsung Display is gearing up to produce 8 million panels for this upcoming device. However, details like the hinge design are yet to be finalized by Apple.

Kuo mentioned on social media that Apple's plans for a foldable phone are still in flux and could change. If Apple does introduce a foldable phone next year, it is expected to be priced at a premium level.

Apple's iPhone business continues to be a major revenue driver for the company, accounting for half of its total revenue. Despite this, iPhone sales have plateaued in recent years. The introduction of a foldable iPhone could potentially attract new customers, with a higher-priced foldable model boosting the average selling price and revenue.

While competitors like Samsung, Motorola, and Google offer foldable devices, Apple has yet to enter this market. Huawei has even introduced trifold phones with multiple folding points. Research shows that only 1.5% of smartphones sold last year were foldable.

The design of Apple's foldable phone is still unknown - whether it will be a flip-style device or a book-style with a large, tablet-like screen inside. Foldable phones have improved in durability over time, but their user interfaces may still need refinement.

Rumors suggest that Apple is also working on a foldable iPad and MacBook hybrid. Analysts first mentioned this possibility in 2022 when discussing a 20-inch foldable computing device. For this year, Apple is expected to release a thinner version of the iPhone 17 Air, alongside the mainline iPhone 17 series, including the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

The next iPhone launch is anticipated in September, coinciding with Apple's annual fall media event.