Alan Martin, analyst at the internal portal Digitaltrends, talked about the prospects of the first folding screen iPhone – iPhone Fold. According to Martin, the iPhone Fold will fail if the device does not support a stylus.
The folding screen iPhone will launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro in 2026. The first folding screen iPhone is Apple's attempt to gain dominance in this new market segment and replace Samsung's leading position.
The analyst noted that he does not recommend buying the first generation of any device because it is often associated with unforeseen problems. But if you want to buy the iPhone Fold, rumored to cost $2,399, he recommends waiting for more information about its compatibility with one important accessory: the Apple Pencil.
According to experts, Apple Pencil is impressive in its ability to recreate the feel of a regular pencil. iPad and Apple Pencil integration is a community demand; Pencil support was also expected on the iPhone, but then Steve Jobs flatly opposed it. Martin emphasized that the foldable iPhone is a combination of iPad and iPhone functionality, and it makes sense that such a device would be compatible with the Apple Pencil.
Otherwise, according to insiders, the iPhone Fold will lose its appeal. This will also be a strong blow to plans to compete with Samsung, which has always supported the S Pen, except for the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
Martin noted that Apple's decision on Pencil support will likely depend on weight and depth issues. While removing the stylus may simplify the design, it could also be a major omission in terms of the model's potential appeal and ability to differentiate itself from Samsung. Experts repeatedly emphasize this in the literature.
