The market for foldable smartphones is expanding at a significantly quicker rate than that of smartphones in general. Therefore, Apple cannot continue to ignore this profitable industry. In fact, there have been numerous reports that a foldable iPhone will be released in the future years.

Nonetheless, a recent TrendForce report claims that Apple is "unlikely to release a foldable phone before 2027". The explanation relates to the "strict requirements for crease and reliability" set by the corporation.

We interpret that to suggest that Apple, in contrast to Samsung, wants the folding screen to be completely wrinkle-free when it is unfolded. Although "reliability" might signify anything, we can surmise that Apple wants the folding mechanism to last for a very long time.

It may yet take some time, according to TrendForce analysts, since Apple is still "evaluating component specifications and performance" for the original iPhone Fold. If, as we've previously heard, it won't be released until 2027, then actual development won't likely begin until at least next year, giving Apple's suppliers plenty of time to meet all of its strict requirements.

Meanwhile, in the first quarter of this year, Huawei overtook Samsung as the best-selling brand worldwide for foldable devices. However, the Korean business may reclaim the top spot when its next Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 appear next month.

There's a catch, though: it looks like Huawei plans to release the first tri-fold smartphone globally in Q3, which is July–September. This could derail Samsung’s festivities.