Apple’s highly anticipated foldable iPhone may carry a starting price of approximately $2,300 in the U.S., making it the most expensive iPhone ever, according to Barclays analyst Tim Long.

This information was shared in a research note to investors. If the predicted price of $2,299 holds true, the foldable iPhone would cost nearly twice as much as the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which is expected to start at $1,199.

Tim Long arrived at this estimate following a recent business trip to Asia, where his team met with component manufacturers.

He noted that Apple’s supply chain has been increasingly discussing a foldable iPhone model, which could launch in late 2026 or early 2027. However, he believes that the device’s high price may limit its sales potential.

Previously, Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo also predicted that the company’s first foldable iPhone would be priced between $2,000 and $2,500. This consensus among experts suggests that the device could be among the most expensive smartphones ever produced.

Despite the premium price, Kuo believes demand could still be strong, provided that Apple delivers on quality expectations. If the company can introduce a foldable iPhone without a visible crease on the display, it would mark a major breakthrough.

According to Kuo, the first foldable iPhone is expected to feature a 7.8-inch primary display when unfolded and a 5.5-inch external screen. It may include a dual-lens rear camera, a single-lens front camera, a Touch ID power button instead of Face ID, and a high-density battery for extended usage.

Kuo also predicts that the device will be just 4.5mm thick when opened and between 9mm and 9.5mm when folded. It is expected to have a titanium outer shell, while the hinge mechanism will be made of a titanium and stainless steel combination.

Mass production of the foldable iPhone is anticipated to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026, according to Kuo.

Another analyst, Jeff Pu, also forecasts a late 2026 production timeline for Apple’s foldable devices. He believes iPhone sales in 2025 may face challenges due to Apple delaying some personalized Siri features until the following year. However, he expects foldable devices to drive Foxconn’s business growth in 2026.

With at least a year and a half before its expected launch, the final pricing of the foldable iPhone remains speculative and could change over time.

Nonetheless, if Apple succeeds in delivering a groundbreaking design with superior display quality and a seamless folding mechanism, the high price may not deter consumers eager for the next evolution in smartphone technology.

Hai Phong