Apple is preparing for one of its most critical hardware milestones in years as it opens its annual autumn event at Apple Park in Cupertino. Breaking away from incremental design updates, the tech giant is widely expected to debut its first-ever foldable smartphone—reportedly named the iPhone Duo or iPhone Ultra—alongside the premium iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
This keynote also marks the first major public product launch led by new Apple Chief Executive Officer John Ternus, who recently succeeded Tim Cook.
A Major Shift in iPhone Strategy
For nearly a decade, Apple has followed a predictable release cadence, launching its base and premium models simultaneously every September. Industry reports indicate a strategic split for 2026: Apple is dedicating its primary stage exclusively to ultra-premium hardware. Standard base models like the regular iPhone 18 and second-generation iPhone Air have reportedly been deferred to early 2027.
The star of the show, the foldable iPhone, introduces a passport-style book design featuring a 5.5-inch cover screen and a 7.8-inch inner display. Engineered with custom hinge mechanisms and liquid metal components, the design aims to eliminate the visible screen crease that has long challenged rival Android foldables. Powered by the new 2nm A20 Pro silicon chip, the device is projected to enter the market at a starting price near $2,000 (roughly ₹1,68,000).
Why It Matters to Consumers and the Industry
While Samsung, Google, and OnePlus have established strong footholds in the foldable segment, Apple’s entry brings major validation to the form factor. Market analysts estimate that Apple could capture up to 25 per cent of global foldable device shipments within months of release.
For ordinary consumers, this move expands mobile productivity by effectively merging a smartphone with a compact tablet. However, elevated production costs and climbing memory prices across the semiconductor sector mean high starting prices will likely keep initial adoption limited to tech enthusiasts and power users.
What Happens Next?
Pre-orders are expected to open shortly after the announcement, with retail availability slated for October. As component yields stabilize and rival manufacturers react, market analysts anticipate that foldable technology will gradually cascade into mid-tier price segments over the next two to three years.
also read : Benefits of Apple Ecosystem: How iPhone, Mac, Watch & iPad Work Together