Foldable Phones Are Unpopular. Why Is Apple Selling One?

Apple's entry into the foldable phone market has been met with skepticism, with many questioning the demand for such devices. According to TrendForce, Apple's first foldable phone is expected to capture nearly 25% of the foldable smartphone market in 2026. This is despite the fact that foldable phones are unpopular, with many consumers preferring traditional smartphones.

The New York Times notes that Apple's move into the foldable phone market may be driven by the desire to stay competitive and to offer consumers a unique product. However, this move may also be a risk for the company, as consumers may not be willing to pay a premium for a foldable phone. TrendForce also notes that both Apple and Huawei are expected to ship 5 million foldable units in 2026.

The Daily Star and Stuff South Africa note that folding screens want to bring back the fun of using phones, but it is unclear if consumers will respond positively to this new technology. Storyboard18 highlights the potential for the foldable phone to be a game-changer in the market, but this is not yet clear.

However, TrendForce notes that the supply chain upgrades driven by Apple's first foldable phone may be a sign that the company is serious about this new technology. This could potentially lead to more innovation in the field of foldable phones.