The smartphone market is heading towards a major change, and Apple could soon become part of the foldable-phone race. The company is scheduled to hold its major September event on September 9, 2026, where it is widely expected to unveil its latest iPhone lineup along with other products.

The biggest attraction could be Apple's first foldable iPhone, which has been widely tipped to arrive under the iPhone Ultra name. If launched, the device would mark Apple's entry into a smartphone category already dominated by companies such as Samsung, Huawei and other Chinese manufacturers.

Apple Could Finally Enter the Foldable Market

Apple has stayed away from foldable smartphones even as rivals have launched several generations of devices.

That could change with the new iPhone Ultra. Reports suggest the phone could use a book-style folding design, opening into a larger display while remaining compact when closed.

Apple is also expected to develop a redesigned version of iOS specifically for the foldable form factor. This could allow apps and the user interface to make better use of the larger internal screen.

Huawei and Xiaomi Have Already Raised the Competition

Apple's expected entry comes at a particularly competitive time.

Huawei has just launched the Mate XT2, a new tri-fold smartphone, while Xiaomi has introduced the Xiaomi 18 Fold in China. Huawei's device uses a three-section folding design, while Xiaomi's new model focuses on a more conventional foldable form factor.

The launches show how quickly manufacturers are experimenting with different approaches to foldable phones.

For Apple, this means it will not be entering an empty market. Consumers already have several years of experience with foldable devices from rival brands.

A Premium Price Could Be a Major Issue

One of the biggest concerns surrounding Apple's foldable iPhone is likely to be its price.

Reports have suggested that the device could cost more than $2,400, putting it firmly in the ultra-premium smartphone category.

In India, such pricing could make the device considerably more expensive than mainstream flagship smartphones. However, Apple's premium positioning could also make the phone attractive to consumers looking for a luxury smartphone with a completely new design.

Display Crease and Durability Will Matter

Foldable phones have improved significantly, but durability remains one of the biggest challenges for the category.

The hinge, flexible display and visible crease can affect the overall experience. Apple's first foldable iPhone will therefore face high expectations from consumers who will likely compare it with the latest Samsung, Huawei and Xiaomi devices.

The company may also try to differentiate the phone through its software rather than relying only on the hardware design.

iPhone 18 Pro Series Also Expected

Apple's September 9 event is not expected to be only about the foldable iPhone.

The company is also expected to introduce the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, along with other products. Reports have pointed to possible camera, display and battery improvements in the Pro models.

The event will therefore be closely watched by smartphone buyers around the world.

Why Apple's Foldable Phone Could Be Important

Apple entering the foldable market could push the technology further into the mainstream.

The company has enormous influence over smartphone design trends. If the iPhone Ultra becomes successful, competitors could face even greater pressure to improve foldable displays, hinges, software and battery technology.

It could also encourage more consumers who have never considered a foldable phone to try the format.

The Big Question: Can Apple Make Foldables Mainstream?

The biggest question is not whether Apple can build a foldable phone, but whether it can make the category more appealing to everyday users.

A combination of premium hardware, optimised software, strong battery life and Apple's ecosystem could give the iPhone Ultra an advantage. At the same time, its expected high price could keep it out of reach for many buyers.

All eyes will now be on September 9, when Apple is expected to reveal what could be one of its most important new product categories in years.