Apple's First Foldable iPhone, Estimated Price Around 400,000 Yen? — Analysts Discuss the "Ultra-Premium Strategy" and the Future of the Smartphone Market in 2026

1. What's Happening? The "Foldable iPhone" Finally Feels Real

According to NDTV Profit, Apple is reportedly preparing to launch the long-rumored foldable iPhone by
2026.NDTV Profit+1

A report from Taiwan's Fubon Research suggests this device could be called

• the tentative "iPhone Fold" or the more premium "iPhone Ultra."

• Set for a 2026 release (around the same time as the iPhone 18 series),

• it is expected to be priced higher than any current iPhone model.

This positioning suggests it could be a high-end device.NDTV Profit+1

While Apple has not officially confirmed anything,
several media outlets and analysts have made similar predictions,
strengthening the belief that "the foldable iPhone is finally coming next year (2026)."MacRumors+1

2. Shocking Predicted Price: How Much is $2,399 in Japanese Yen?

2-1. Range of $2,000 to $2,500, Leaning Towards the "Upper Limit"

Liao from Fubon Research has suggested a specific price for the foldable iPhone:
$2,399.

This figure is near the upper limit of the "range of $2,000 to $2,500" previously mentioned by other analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo..MacRumors+1

Other media outlets also estimate around

• $2,399 (such as MacRumors)MacRumors

• Pointing out that it could be "about twice the price of the iPhone 17 Pro Max" (Wccftech)Wccftech

indicating that it might not be in the "high 200,000 yen range" but rather in the "300,000 to 400,000 yen class."Smartprix+1

2-2. How Much Will It Cost in Japanese Yen?

Given the daily fluctuations in exchange rates, it's hard to predict the exact price in yen, but assuming 1 dollar = around 160 yen:

• $2,000 → approximately 320,000 yen

• $2,399 → approximately 380,000 to 390,000 yen

• $2,500 → approximately 400,000 yen

These are the estimated levels.

Considering the consumption tax in Japan and the unique pricing strategy for the Japanese market (often adding an extra 10,000 to 20,000 yen), it's more realistic to expect that it could reach the "400,000 yen range."

Furthermore,

• AppleCare+

• official cases and accessories

• carrier installment fees and interest

could bring the total close to "500,000 yen."

3. Why So Expensive? The Story Behind the "Ultra-Premium Price"

3-1. Rising Component Costs (BOM)

According to Fubon Research, the component costs (BOM) for the foldable iPhone are expected to increase by 5-6% in 2026..NDTV Profit+1

The main cost drivers are

• large foldable OLED displays

• durable hinge mechanisms

• lightweight metal materials (such as titanium and aluminum) that balance lightness and strength

and other specialized components.Smartprix+1

These components are more
expensive and difficult to manufacture than the panels and frames used in regular iPhones, which is reflected in the price.Smartprix+1

3-2. High-Cost Design Aiming for "Zero Crease"

A common issue with foldable smartphones is that the **"crease"** in the middle can detract from the user experience.
.
.

According to multiple reports, Apple is working to solve this problem by

• developing a new panel structure

• using proprietary lamination technology

• and collaborating with multiple suppliers (Samsung Display, Amphenol, Shin Zu Shing, etc.)

to achieve a **"nearly crease-free display."**Smartprix+1

This design aiming for "zero crease" involves

• panel yield

• hinge precision

• and the use of lightweight yet high-strength materials (such as liquid metal)

all of which contribute to increased costs,

ultimately raising the device's price.Smartprix+1

3-3. Maintaining Apple's High Profit Margins

Liao also points out that Apple prioritizes maintaining its "characteristic profit margins" even with the foldable iPhone.
.NDTV Profit+1

In other words,

• to absorb the costs of high-priced components

• new manufacturing lines

• and research and development

while maintaining the high profit margins established in the traditional iPhone business,they are compelled to set prices towards the upper limit.

4. Comparison with Rivals: What About Galaxy Z Fold and Pixel Fold?

4-1. A Price "Head and Shoulders Above" Samsung and Google

Currently, the foldable smartphone market is led by Samsung and Google.

• Galaxy Z Fold 7: Around $1,999 (less during promotions)

• Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Around $1,799

These are the expected price ranges.NDTV Profit+1

In contrast,

• Foldable iPhone: Predicted at $2,399

means it will be

$400 to $600 more expensive than its rivals, making it a "distinctly ultra-high-end device."

4-2. Differentiation Through Storage Capacity and Battery?

In this price range, rival devices already offer

• large storage capacities (up to 1TB)

• large batteries

• UI optimized for multitasking

and more.##