Apple(US:AAPL) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2026-01-17 02:09Core Viewpoint - The unveiling of Apple's first foldable flagship iPhone, the iPhoneFold, marks a significant shift in the high-end smartphone market, showcasing Apple's commitment to innovation after nearly five years of development [1][3]. Product Launch Strategy - Apple has adopted a disruptive product release strategy for this year, launching the iPhone17e in the first half and focusing on the iPhone18Pro series and the highly anticipated iPhoneFold in September, while delaying the standard iPhone18 to 2027 [3]. - This staggered release aims to maximize attention on the iPhoneFold, positioning it as the standout product in the smartphone market [3]. Design and Features - The iPhoneFold features a horizontal book-style fold design, maintaining Apple's minimalist aesthetic, with an outer screen size of approximately 5.2-5.3 inches and an inner screen of around 7.6 inches, providing an impressive visual experience [3][5]. - It incorporates a liquid metal hinge, a technology developed by Apple over 15 years, which is expected to eliminate creases and enhance durability [5]. Technical Specifications - The iPhoneFold will feature a new generation of screens supplied by Samsung, with a peak brightness of over 2000 nits and a foldable lifespan, alongside the new A20Pro chip manufactured using TSMC's 2nm process, promising a 15% performance boost and 30% improved energy efficiency [5]. - A customized iOS27 system will be introduced, focusing on seamless dual-screen interaction and ecosystem collaboration, addressing the industry's perception of foldable screens as mere gimmicks [5]. Pricing and Market Position - The iPhoneFold is expected to be positioned in the ultra-high-end market, with a starting price likely above 15,000 yuan, facing initial production and yield challenges that may lead to supply shortages [8]. - Despite the high price, demand from loyal Apple fans and high-end users is anticipated to remain strong, indicating a potential turning point for the foldable smartphone market as Apple enters the fray [8].