Foldable iPhone appeals to almost no one: Three-quarters of Americans don't want one

A YouGov survey has revealed that the majority of adult US residents are not interested in a foldable iPhone. Meanwhile, photographs and videos purportedly showing the future device's motherboard have begun appearing online. The gap between public expectations and the device's anticipated price tag has proven to be very wide.

Who Is Not Interested in a Foldable iPhone

The survey was conducted from 13 to 17 August and covered 2,605 respondents. According to its findings, 75% of American adults stated they would not buy a foldable Apple smartphone. The least interest came from older generations: among Baby Boomers, 83% expressed disinterest, while among Generation X the figure was 77%. For Generation Z and Millennials, the proportions were slightly lower, at 69% and 68% respectively.

On average, Americans said they would be willing to pay $781 for such a device. Generation Z respondents were prepared to pay the most—an average of $919. For Millennials, that amount stood at $859, for Generation X at $690, and for Baby Boomers at just $572. The expected retail price of a foldable iPhone, according to current forecasts, exceeds $2,000—significantly higher than what people consider acceptable.

How Rising Prices Affect Buyers' Plans

The survey also found that 41% of Americans are reconsidering their smartphone upgrade plans because of anticipated price increases. Some are looking at older or budget models, others are willing to switch brands or buy a refurbished device. Another 9% said they would only upgrade if a favourable trade-in offer or carrier promotion were available. Twenty-two per cent of respondents stated they had no plans to change their phone in the near future at all—regardless of what Apple might offer.

Leaks of Foldable iPhone Components

In parallel with the survey results, images and a short video purportedly showing the motherboard of the first foldable iPhone have surfaced online. The materials are circulating on X and Chinese platforms. The images highlight the processor, hinge connector, flexible cable connector, and other components. A similar schematic was also posted by a Chinese parts supplier.

The authenticity of the leak has not yet been confirmed. Nevertheless, the appearance of such materials may indicate that the device is indeed approaching an announcement. According to earlier leaks, the foldable iPhone will feature a 5.5-inch external display and a 7.8-inch internal one, an A20 Pro chip, a 5,000 mAh battery, dual 48-megapixel rear cameras, and 18-megapixel selfie cameras on both displays. It is expected to be unveiled alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models, with a price tag of no less than $2,000.

In Brief

A YouGov survey found that 75% of American adults do not want to buy a foldable iPhone. The average amount they are willing to pay is around $781, while the real price is forecast to exceed $2,000. At the same time, photographs purportedly showing the motherboard of Apple's future foldable smartphone have appeared online. The authenticity of the materials has not been confirmed, but they may signal that an announcement is approaching.