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Joining the foldable pack

By Sascha Brodsky Sascha Brodsky Senior Tech Reporter Macalester College Columbia University Sascha Brodsky is a freelance journalist based in New York City. His writing has appeared in The Atlantic, the Guardian, the Los Angeles Times and many other publications. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on May 3, 2021 12:32PM EDT Fact checked by Rich Scherr Fact checked by Rich Scherr University of Maryland Baltimore County Rich Scherr is a seasoned technology and financial journalist who spent nearly two decades as the editor of Potomac and Bay Area Tech Wire. lifewire's fact checking process Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Phones Mobile Phones Internet & Security Computers & Tablets Smart Life Home Theater & Entertainment Software & Apps Social Media Streaming Gaming A folding iPhone might finally be in the works. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reportedly has told investors that Apple plans to launch an 8-inch foldable iPhone by 2023. Kuo predicts that Apple plans to sell 15-20 million foldable phones the year of its launch. GeorgeRodd / Getty Images Kuo’s report says that the QHD+ flexible OLED screen and the display controller will come from Samsung. Even though other companies got their foldables to market first, Kuo said that Apple would have an advantage with the first foldable iPhone due to its strong "cross-product ecosystem." The folding iPhone would join similar products from other manufacturers. For example, there’s the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 and the Microsoft Surface Duo. Reaction to these phones has been muted, and observers have noted that there aren't many apps available that take advantage of the folding screens. "Apple, not surprisingly, has been sitting on the sidelines watching," Carl Prouty of electronics retailer Abt Electronics said in an email interview. "They are not typically the first to market with new technologies like this. But, thankfully for Apple customers, when they do finally jump on board, they do it right." If Apple introduces a foldable phone, it brings more than just a new device to the market. Users of a foldable iPhone could benefit from the many iOS developers. "If Apple introduces a foldable phone, it brings more than just a new device to the market," Jason Cottrell, CEO of software development firm Myplanet, said in an email interview. "It will catalyze millions of apps and app developers to think about how they can make the most of this new format." The vast number of apps available unlocked the full value of the iPad, Cottrell said. "The same will be true here if Apple introduces a foldable phone." Whatever form the foldable iPhone eventually takes, don't expect it to be inexpensive. The current foldables on the market tend to cost well over $1,000. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire Why USB-C iPhones Could Help Make Your Life Easier Microsoft Surface Trio: News and Expected Price, Release Date, Specs; and More Rumors The Foldable iPhone: News and Expected Price, Release Date, Specs; and More Rumors Rollable Pixel: News and Expected Price, Release Date, Specs; and More Rumors Apple VR Headset: News, Rumors, and Expected Price, Release Date, and Specs Foldable MacBook: News and Expected Price, Release Date, Specs; and More Rumors Google Pixel Fold: News and Expected Price, Release Date, Specs; and More Rumors Galaxy Z Fold 3: News, Price, Release Date, and Specs Samsung Z Fold 4: News, Rumors, Price, Release Date, and Specs What is a Foldable Phone and How Does One Work? Apple Glasses: News and Expected Price, Release Date, Specs; and More Rumors Apple Car: News and Expected Price, Release Date, Specs; and More Rumors iPhone 15: News, Rumors, and Estimated Price, Release Date, and Specs Mac Inside a Keyboard: News and Expected Price, Release Date, Specs; and More Rumors ProMotion Display iMac: News and Expected Price, Release Date, Specs; and More Rumors Google Pixel Tablet: News and Expected Price, Release Date, Specs; and More Rumors Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies