Market research firm IDC expects Apple to sell a huge amount of its very first folding phone during its first year out. Analysts predict that the upcoming device, often referred to as the iPhone Ultra, will ship more than 10 million units once it officially launches. This massive number could give a big boost to a smartphone category that was previously facing a severe drop in sales.
A pricey new phone revives a shrinking gadget category
According to Bloomberg, the new foldable phone could carry a retail price of around $2,500. Even with that steep cost, IDC senior research director Nabila Popal believes the device will be a huge hit. Samsung has owned the folding space for seven years, but the wider market was heading for a slump due to part shortages.
Now, experts predict the foldable phone market will grow by more than 12 percent this year. That growth should speed up to 18 percent next year. The late arrival by the company is actually helping save the overall category from a major drop in total sales.
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The brand could capture almost half the foldable market soon
While Samsung currently leads the pack with models like the Galaxy Z Fold8, its massive lead might shrink fast. Research suggests that Apple could grab 40 percent of all foldable phone shipments by the year 2027.
In Europe, the new device will face some strict new rules. The company will have to show energy labels that grade how easy the phone is to repair. These labels will also score how well the device survives being dropped. We will learn more details when the company officially shows off the new phone at its September 9 event.
People have waited a long time for a folding device from the popular brand. If these huge sales predictions actually come true, it seems the long wait will definitely pay off for both the company and the broader smartphone market.
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