New details revealed by Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman reveal the internal development process and pricing of the first-generation foldable iPhone. The company plans to unveil a device at its special event, which will likely cost close to $3.000 in its higher configurations.
Estimated price in US dollars and its equivalent in euros
Initially, Apple considered setting the starting price at $1.999, a psychological price point below $2,000, to replicate the commercial success of the 2017 iPhone X. However, recent internal discussions due to the impact of the global memory shortage have put the base price at $2.199, reaching $3.000 in the high-capacity version.
Taking into account the usual adjustments such as indirect taxes (such as Spain’s 21% VAT) and exchange rate fluctuations compared to US duty-free prices, the estimated prices for the European market are as follows:
- Base model: $2.199 (estimated approx. 2.399 to 2.449 euros).
- Higher configurations: up to 3.000 USD (estimated to be approximately 3.199 to 3.299 €).
While the cost was expected to be an initial shock to the public, users’ willingness to pay close to $2,000 for a traditional model with expanded storage convinced management that there was a viable market for such a high-end device.
History and Engineering Challenges: From Concept to Reality
The project made decisive progress around 2020, when CEO Tim Cook concluded his trip to Asia and was convinced that it needed to compete with folding screen products from manufacturers such as Samsung and Huawei. While engineering teams have been working on foldable screens and components for years — even before the original Galaxy Fold came out in 2019 — the project stalled due to debate over its form factor, with options considered in the early stages… A foldable iPad mini before settling on a smartphone format.
Initially conceived under the guidance of Dan Riccio and later supported by John Turners, the technology development prioritized four key challenges:
- Reduce the fold visible from the interior panels.
- The reliability of the hinge mechanism is ultimately achieved using a titanium-aluminum alloy structure.
- Ultra-durable flexible glass developed in partnership with Corning Incorporated.
- A camera is integrated below the screen.
Design and technical commitment
The device differs in dimensions compared to similar products: a 7.8-inch internal screen and a 5.5-inch external panel in a wide and compact form factor, with internal proportions that have been compared to those of a folded passport and an opened Magic Trackpad.
Despite the engineering improvements, the report notes that the device will still have some compromises compared to the legacy lineup: The device will be less durable than traditional iPhones, will offer a reduced battery life and have a lower camera system as well as Pro models. However, the company is confident that all models produced will sell out thanks to their software integration and quality workmanship.
Starting cost will be over €2,000 in Europe Considering the sacrifices Apple’s foldable phones make in terms of battery life and cameras compared to the Pro series, do you think Apple’s foldable design provides enough of a reason to buy it from the get-go?
