Latest news with #TrendForce
Mint
6 days ago
- Mint
Apple's first foldable iPhone tipped for 2026 with smaller displays than Galaxy Z Fold 7
Apple is reportedly preparing to enter the foldable smartphone segment, with its first foldable iPhone expected to debut in the second half of 2026. A new report by market research firm TrendForce sheds light on the anticipated display specifications of the device, offering a clearer picture of what the so-called "iPhone Fold" might look like. According to TrendForce, the foldable iPhone is likely to feature a 5.5-inch outer screen and a 7.8-inch internal foldable display. These dimensions align with previous predictions shared by a Chinese tipster earlier this year. If accurate, Apple's foldable handset would be smaller in both screen areas compared to Samsung's recently launched Galaxy Z Fold 7, which boasts a larger display footprint. While the report refrains from delving into further technical specifications, it does suggest that Apple is focusing on delivering a version of iOS tailored specifically for foldable use cases. The foldable iPhone is expected to run a variant of the operating system believed to be iOS 27. Other industry reports have also offered insight into Apple's foldable ambitions. Noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously indicated that the inner display would be manufactured by Samsung Display and designed to be free of the visible crease common in current foldable phones. A custom-built hinge and backplate developed by Fine M-Tec are also said to be in the works, aimed at boosting structural integrity. Meanwhile, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has claimed that the device may resemble a model from the Galaxy Z Fold series and could incorporate components sourced from Samsung. Apple is reportedly working on integrating these elements with its own software to offer a distinct user experience. As it stands, the foldable iPhone is believed to be slated to compete with the next generation of foldable devices from major Android manufacturers, including successors to the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Vivo X Fold 5, and Oppo Find N5. More information, including detailed specifications and potential pricing, is expected to emerge as the projected 2026 launch date approaches.
Tom's Guide
6 days ago
- Tom's Guide
Apple's iPhone Fold could feature the largest iPhone screen ever, but still fall behind the Galaxy Z Fold 7
A recent report has appeared to confirm rumors about just how big Apple's foldable iPhone's screens will be. And the alleged measurements could be both impressive and a disappointment. In a recent report, the Taiwanese research firm TrendForce (via MacRumors) stated that Apple's foldable phone will feature a 7.8-inch internal display and a 5.5-inch external screen. If accurate, then it will be an impressively sized phone, with it exceeding some of the best foldable phones you can buy, including the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the OnePlus Open. However, there are more than a few models that exceed it, including the Galaxy Z Fold 7, which has an 8-inch inner screen and a 6.5-inch outer display. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is another that comes with an 8-inch inner display, while the outer screen is 6.3 inches; with the same expected on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Meanwhile, the Oppo Find N5 features a staggering 8.12-inch inner display alongside a 6.62-inch front display. This isn't the first time we've heard these measurements, as Apple supply chain Ming-Chi Kuo gave similar numbers back in March. Kuo also believes that the phone will be between 9 and 9.5mm thick when folded and between 4 and 4.5mm when opened. While that is very thin, it would again fall short of the Z Fold 7, which measures 4.2mm thick when unfolded and 8.9mm when folded. The size of foldable phones' screens is only half the battle, however, and it looks like Apple is working to create a completely crease-free display to help the phone stand out. According to a recent report, the new displays will be coming from Samsung, which has solved the crease issue to Apple's satisfaction and will, according to Kuo, 'ensure stable mass production of the foldable iPhone in 2026." Unfortunately, for all we know about the device, there is more that we don't know. For instance, we don't know for certain which chip will feature on the phone, although it is a safe bet that it will be the A19 chip that will reportedly launch on the iPhone 17. We also don't know what cameras the phone will have, although in their previously mentioned post, Kuo stated that it will likely feature two rear cameras, a front camera (which could be placed under the display,) and a Touch ID power button. While it appears that the measurements for the iPhone Fold's screen appear confirmed, we should always take rumors like these with a pinch of salt. As it stands, we can't say anything for certain until Apple officially announces the phone, which several rumors have tipped for 2026. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
Khaleej Times
7 days ago
- Khaleej Times
Is Apple launching a foldable iPhone? Here's what we know
Apple may finally be ready to join the foldable phone race. According to a new report from Taiwanese research firm TrendForce, highlighted by MacRumors, Apple's first foldable iPhone is expected to launch in the second half of 2026 and will feature a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch outer display. These dimensions echo an earlier prediction by Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, suggesting growing confidence in the design specs from multiple sources. In terms of screen size, Apple's rumoured foldable falls slightly behind Samsung's latest Galaxy Z Fold 7, which boasts an 8-inch main screen and a 6.5-inch cover display. However, Apple could set itself apart in other ways, particularly with design and build quality. Kuo recently claimed that the foldable iPhone will feature a 'crease-free' inner display, thanks to a laser-drilled metal display plate that helps disperse stress and prevent visible folding lines. If accurate, this would address one of the most common complaints about foldable screens and offer a more seamless viewing experience. Kuo also suggests the foldable iPhone will feature two rear cameras, a single front-facing camera, and Touch ID integrated into the power button, instead of Apple's usual Face ID system. This shift could be due to the technical limitations of embedding Face ID sensors into a foldable form factor — or simply a way to maintain a thinner profile. The launch timeframe suggested by TrendForce places the device's debut in September 2026, aligning with Apple's traditional fall hardware events. If Apple does enter the foldable space, it could reshape the category and push competitors to rethink their designs, much like the original iPhone did for smartphones back in 2007.
GSM Arena
22-07-2025
- GSM Arena
Forecast: Samsung to stay #1 in foldables, but its lead over Huawei will shrink significantly
The global foldable market is growing at a 'measured pace', writes TrendForce in its latest report. The main obstacles to adoption remain the same – concerns about durability, the crease and, of course, price. The analysts forecast that 19.8 million foldables will be sold this year, which would be 1.6% of the total smartphone market (about the same fraction as last year). Samsung is currently in first place on the global foldable market, though its lead over the competition is expected to evaporate – predictions see it going from 45.2% last year to 35.4% this year. This would put it only a hair ahead of Huawei, whose market share is expected to shrink slightly from 35.2% last year to 34.2% this year. That would leave just over one percentage point between the two companies. Several other makers are in the running – their shares are small but growing. For example, Honor and Motorola had 6% and 5.5% market share in 2024 and are expected to go up to 9.1% and 7.6% this year. The combined numbers for Oppo and vivo are predicted to capture 8.5% of the market. Meanwhile, Xiaomi will grow from 3% to 5.1% this year. TrendForce forecasts that the global foldable market will continue its slow but steady growth in the near future. One thing that could really shake things up is Apple entering the market. This may happen as soon as next year, with orders for foldable display panels already placed with Samsung Display. Apple is reportedly focused on eliminating the crease and using liquid metal to strengthen the phone. As for the third concern that people have, well, no one expects an Apple device to be cheap – least of all its first foldable. Source
Yahoo
22-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Accelerated Brand Expansion Reshapes Foldable Phone Market; Apple's 2026 Entry May Ignite Industry Breakthrough, Says TrendForce
TAIPEI, July 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TrendForce's latest forecast estimates that shipments of foldable phones will reach 19.8 million units in 2025, maintaining a market penetration rate of around 1.6%, on par with 2024. Although growth has slowed compared to previous years, advancements in technology and declining prices are gradually positioning foldables as a key innovation in the mid-to-high-end smartphone segment—and a powerful tool for brand differentiation. Leading manufacturers are accelerating their development roadmaps, expanding product portfolios and pricing tiers in preparation for a potential market boom in 2026. Samsung currently leads the foldable segment and recently launched its next-generation flagship, the Galaxy Z Fold 7, with significant improvements in hinge design, crease visibility, and form factor. However, TrendForce notes that growing competition from other brands is eroding Samsung's dominance, with its global market share expected to drop from 45.2% in 2024 to 35.4% in 2025. Huawei is projected to maintain strong momentum in China and secure the second-largest global share at 34.3% in 2025. Meanwhile, Honor and Lenovo (Motorola) are emerging as fast-growing players. Their respective market shares are forecast to climb from 6% and 5.5% in 2024 to 9.1% and 7.6% in 2025, reflecting their aggressive expansion into the mid-to-high-end foldable segment. Xiaomi is also gaining traction with its MIX Flip series targeting the compact foldable market, with its share expected to rise from 3% in 2024 to 5.1% in 2025. Combined, other brands such as OPPO and vivo are projected to account for 8.5%, underscoring a more diverse and competitive foldable ecosystem. Despite notable improvements in technology and product offerings, TrendForce notes that global foldable sales continue to grow at a measured pace. Key barriers include lingering concerns about crease visibility, durability, and high pricing. For consumers who aren't loyal to specific brands, the incentive to switch remains relatively low. Consequently, foldables are still largely positioned as high-end experimental devices, while most users continue to favor well-established, cost-effective bar-type flagships. That could change in 2026. TrendForce indicates that Apple is likely to launch its first foldable phone in the second half of next year, featuring a 5.5-inch external display and a 7.8-inch internal display. If confirmed, Apple's entry is expected to significantly raise consumer interest and acceptance of foldables, especially among high-end users. The device is rumored to emphasize Apple's signature focus on ecosystem integration and stability, with deep iOS optimization for foldable use cases and seamless integration between hardware and software. Overall, foldables are evolving from mere showcases of innovation into full-fledged product categories, with structured lineups ranging from entry-level to flagship. As prices fall and materials improve, foldables are becoming increasingly accessible. TrendForce believes Apple's 2026 debut could be the turning point that drives foldables into the mainstream and injects renewed momentum into the smartphone industry. For more information on reports and market data from TrendForce's Department of Display Research, please click here, or email the Sales Department at DR_MI@ For additional insights from TrendForce analysts on the latest tech industry news, trends, and forecasts, please visit About TrendForce TrendForce is a global provider of the latest development, insight, and analysis of the technology industry. Having served businesses for over a decade, the company has built up a strong membership base of 500,000 subscribers. TrendForce has established a reputation as an organization that offers insightful and accurate analysis of the technology industry through five major research divisions: Semiconductor Research, Display Research, Optoelectronics Research, Green Energy Research, ICT Applications Research. Founded in Taipei, Taiwan in 2000, TrendForce has extended its presence in China since 2004 with offices in Shenzhen and Beijing. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE TrendForce Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
