As Apple prepares its foldable iPhone roadmap, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip could enjoy three more years of uncontested dominance in the clamshell foldable space.
Apple’s Foldable Timeline Is Still Taking Shape
Apple’s entry into the foldable phone market has been highly anticipated, yet delayed. Despite nearly seven years since Samsung unveiled its first foldable device, Apple has yet to officially join the race.
- According to Korean tipster yeux1122, Apple is planning to launch three groundbreaking mobile devices in the next few years.
- The first foldable iPhone, expected in 2026, will likely mimic the Galaxy Z Fold 7, offering a large 8-inch display that unfolds into an iPad Mini-like experience.
This means Apple is focusing on function-first foldables before venturing into compact, flip-style formats.
The Flip-Style iPhone Won’t Arrive Until 2028
Apple’s clamshell foldable—a direct competitor to the Galaxy Z Flip—is reportedly not set to launch until 2028.
- This device may feature a sub-7-inch internal foldable screen with a minimalist cover display.
- Apple is still deciding whether to use a larger external screen, like the Galaxy Z Flip 7, or stick to a more compact design, reminiscent of earlier Flip models.
This leaves Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip series unchallenged in the flip phone segment for at least three more years.
Samsung Has Time to Perfect the Galaxy Z Flip
With no serious competitor from Apple until 2028, Samsung can continue refining its Galaxy Z Flip lineup.
- Future upgrades could target battery life, camera quality, and eliminating the visible crease in the foldable display.
- The upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 7 already demonstrates how far the product line has come—but further innovation can solidify Samsung’s lead.
The foldable OLED panels used in Apple’s upcoming devices are reportedly sourced from Samsung Display, highlighting Samsung’s continued leadership in foldable tech.
Apple Is Also Developing Larger Foldables
Beyond smartphones, Apple is working on larger foldable devices, including an 18-inch foldable iPad.
- Originally set for release in 2028, this iPad may now be delayed to 2029 due to design challenges.
- It will also rely on Samsung’s foldable OLED tech, underlining Apple’s dependence on its primary competitor’s innovation.
This signals a long-term commitment to foldables, but also shows Apple’s cautious approach to entering a still-maturing market.
Apple’s Strategy: Deliberate, But High-Stakes
Apple’s decision to delay its flip-style foldable until 2028 reflects a preference for refinement over speed.
- Unlike Samsung’s iterative evolution, Apple often waits to perfect new form factors before launching them.
- However, this strategy gives rivals like Samsung ample time to entrench their dominance and set user expectations in the foldables space.
By the time Apple’s clamshell iPhone arrives, Samsung may already be several generations ahead with a well-honed product ecosystem.
