Apple Targets 10 Million Foldable iPhones in 2027

Apple plans to ship roughly 10 million foldable iPhones by early 2027, a volume that would represent nearly 5% of the company's total projected production for the year. This premium-priced device is viewed as a critical catalyst for driving Apple's stock price toward $400 by the end of the decade. [1]

Production and Financial Targets

Apple aims to launch five new iPhones into early 2027, including the foldable model, against a total production backdrop of approximately 220 million units. [1] The device is reportedly already in production, though the final launch date may depend on resolving reported hinge design issues. [2] Analysts project the foldable will carry a premium average selling price (ASP), potentially starting around $2,000, which could disproportionately lift revenue and gross margins. [1][2] This optimism underpins a 24/7 Wall St. price target of $336.98 over the next 12 months, with a bull case reaching $400 by 2029. [1]

Depreciation Risks and Market Context

Despite the financial upside, the device faces significant headwinds regarding resale value. Historical data indicates foldables lose an average of 64.6% of their value in the first year—shedding roughly $997.69—compared to a 55.3% loss for standard smartphones. [2] If the iPhone Fold follows industry trends, it could lose $1,292 in year one; however, if it matches the iPhone 16's superior retention rate of 51.5%, the loss would narrow to approximately $970. [2] Meanwhile, Apple's current financial momentum remains strong, with Q2 FY26 revenue hitting $111.18 billion and Services revenue setting a record at $30.98 billion. [1]

What to watch

• The official early 2027 launch date and whether hinge issues cause delays. [1][2]
• The Supreme Court's ruling on the Epic Games App Store contempt case, which could impact Services economics. [1]
• Rising memory costs and their effect on gross margins, which management flagged as "significantly higher." [1]

The success of the foldable iPhone hinges on Apple's ability to command a premium price while mitigating the steep depreciation that plagues competitors, a balance that will determine if the stock can breach the $400 mark.