Fubon Research peg’s foldable iPhone at $2,399, placing it near the top end of expected pricing

A fresh estimate from Fubon Research suggests Apple’s foldable iPhone could carry a price of $2,399. That figure sits on the higher end of a spectrum that has seen estimates ranging from about $1,800 to $2,500. Other well-known analysts have offered different takes: Ming-Chi Kuo has pointed to a price corridor of $2,000 to $2,500, while Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has hovered around $2,000.

The higher cost is tied to premium hardware Apple plans to use for the foldable model. Fubon notes that the display panel and the hinge are the key components likely to push the price toward the upper end of market expectations. While demand will hinge on the final price tag, the firm projects Apple could move around 5.4 million units in 2026. In a year where global smartphone demand could dip, foldables may become the standout segment within the 2026 market.

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Premium build requirements are expected to keep the foldable iPhone at the expensive end of the market.

Beyond the foldable model, the report touches on future Apple hardware plans for 2026, including camera upgrades. The company is reportedly planning its first variable-aperture lens for the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. It doesn’t appear the iPhone Fold will receive this feature, but rumors still point to a dual-lens rear setup (Wide and Ultra Wide) plus two front-facing cameras.

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A potential variable aperture lens is anticipated for iPhone 18 Pro models, with the foldable likely sticking to a more traditional camera arrangement.

Other headlines circulating in the same timeframe discuss Apple’s broader event calendar and related product moves. Apple has announced a “special Apple Experience” in New York, London, and Shanghai for March 4, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. ET, described only as an event invitation without further specifics.

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The invitation hints at a showcase spanning three major cities with a focus on new experiences.

In related coverage, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has reported interest in a wearable AI accessory that could resemble an AirTag-sized pendant for iPhone users, a concept drawing inspiration from earlier attempts like the Humane AI Pin but positioned as a companion device.

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Apple reportedly aims for an “AirTag-sized pendant” as part of its wearable AI ambitions.

Meanwhile, Apple’s CarPlay feature updates continue to be a theme. iOS 26.4’s beta references a new CarPlay video capability that would let users watch video content in their cars when not driving, building on WWDC 2025’s reveal that AirPlay could stream video in such contexts.

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A new CarPlay video streaming capability appears to be nearing public availability in iOS 26.4.

Market watchers also note shifts in iPhone trading activity. Recent data indicate the iPhone 17 Pro Max has rapidly become a top traded device, according to independent trade-in analyses, suggesting strong interest in Apple’s latest flagship while consumers anticipate new models.

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The iPhone 17 Pro Max has emerged as a leading trade-in candidate in recent market data.

There’s also chatter about a more affordable MacBook launch tied to the March 4 event, with color options and bold finishes rumored to be part of the package. The event marketing has already highlighted a “special Apple Experience” across three major cities, fueling speculation about a broader hardware push beyond the foldable iPhone.

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Rumors point to a budget-friendly MacBook variant arriving around the same event window, offered in vivid color choices.

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