The expected launch of iPhone 18 has been delayed to be 2027, and one of the products that will shape the flagship product in 2026 is a fold-able version called the iPhone Fold.
The strategic repositioning is a rejuvenation move by Apple since it embraces a more differentiated launch cycle to be able to compete with the dynamic forces in the market.
Memory Crunch Hits Hard
The world semiconductor market is suffering from acute shortage of DRAM and NAND flash memory, with artificial intelligence data centers being estimated to consume 70% of premium DRAM production in 2026.
TrendForce forecasts that the conventional DRAM contract prices will rise by 55-60% in the first quarter of that year, and that the prices of NAND flash will grow by 33-38 %. The leading suppliers such as Samsung, Micron and SK Hynix are focusing more on lucrative AI server deals rather than consumer electronics and this has increased supply pressure.
The forecast by Counterpoint Research indicates a 2.1% decrease in the global smartphone shipment in the following year and an increase of average selling price (ASP) by 6.9%, which is a significant change compared to its previous forecast of 3.6 %.
Price increases have already been introduced by major manufacturers of personal computers including HP, Lenovo and Dell, which reflect exerted pressure on the industry at large.
Foldable Leap Reshapes Lineup
The updated product strategy of Apple completely forgoes its traditional base, Pro, and Pro Max collections and introduces a new product, the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the iPhone Fold, which will be released in September 2026.
According to the information presented by analysts Ming-chi Kuan, Apple tries to align itself with Android rivals, with the help of arranging two launch events, six months apart.
The lower-priced model, the iPhone 18, and its version iPhone 18e will be pushed to the beginning of 2027, which may come with an iPhone Air 2 release, to reduce the strains of production that involve the development of foldable prototypes.
Smart Strategy or Risky Bet?
Switching to a fold-able phone is a strategic move indicating the projection of the foldable market growth by a quarter; the iPhone Fold should be equipped with a dual camera and an external fingerprint sensor.
However, this may not be delivered in time because of yield limitations which may cause delays until the year 2027 thus the possibility of losing budget-sensitive consumers who will be faced with a price hike.
The market equilibrium in the future can be reached in 2028 with the continuation of the manufacturing capacities due to the new fabricated plants As a result, 2026 buyers will be able to expect a renewed focus on high-end products and products with higher prices.
The large size and extensive ecosystem means that Apple is set to be in a position to possibly win the sector as long as the demand of the foldable model outweighs the current supply constraints.
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