Apple's first foldable iPhone targets premium upgrades in a shrinking market

Apple is set to launch its first foldable iPhone on Wednesday, September 9, aiming to revitalize its flagship product and drive upgrades amid a declining smartphone market. The device, unveiled at Apple's keynote, enters a niche segment under 3% of global sales, seven years after Samsung's Galaxy Fold. Analysts expect Apple to capture 25% of foldable sales and boost market growth by 21%, with over 10 million units shipped in year one. The iPhone adopts a "passport" format with a 5.5-inch outer screen and 7.8-inch inner display, priced above 2,500 euros. It features an A20 Pro chip, 12GB RAM, and Touch ID, but lacks Face ID and a telephoto lens, raising durability and app adaptation concerns.