Foldables have moved from novelty to category momentum. Recent consumer tech coverage argues 2025 was a strong year for foldables and points to 2026 as potentially bigger especially if Apple launches its first folding iPhone. Whether or not timelines slip, the direction is clear: foldables are becoming a mainstream design language.
Why foldables are finally sticking
Earlier foldables suffered from durability concerns and unclear value. The new generation benefits from:
- Better hinge engineering and thinner designs
- More mature “foldable-first” UX features
- Stronger cameras and chip efficiency
- A clearer use case: pocketability + tablet-like screen
Why Apple’s entry would change the market
Apple rarely invents categories, but it industrializes them. If an iPhone Fold ships, it could:
- Normalize the format for mainstream buyers
- Drive accessory and app optimization
- Pressure Android OEMs to compete on experience, not just hardware
What to watch in 2026
- App UX adapting for multi-window foldable workflows
- More competition on crease reduction and durability
- Price pressure as volumes increase (eventually)
- New form factors (tri-fold, rollable concepts)