More than 10% of iPhone owners eyeing a folding phone – survey

Source: 9to5Mac

Survey Findings

Price alone is likely to make the iPhone Fold (or iPhone Ultra) a somewhat niche product in Apple’s lineup, but a new survey suggests there could be more interest than one might expect.

• The majority of US smartphone owners still prioritize price (55 %) and battery life (52 %).
• Interest in new form factors like foldables was surprisingly high, with more than 10 % of iPhone owners indicating they would consider a folding phone.

Comparison with CNET Survey

A CNET survey of US adults was headlined as showing a lack of interest in folding phones:

• Only 12 % of respondents were motivated by AI integrations.
• 13 % cited new phone designs as a reason to upgrade.
• For iPhone owners, the figure for new designs rose slightly to 14 %.

While CNET framed these numbers as lukewarm, the 10 %+ interest reported in the 9to5Mac survey is higher than many expected, suggesting a larger potential market for a folding iPhone than previously assumed.

Caveats

• Awareness of price: Respondents may not have known the likely cost of a first‑generation folding iPhone. A $2,000+ price tag could dramatically reduce interest.
• Interest vs. purchase intent: There is always a gap between expressed interest and actual buying behavior.

Takeaway

Even if a folding iPhone remains a niche product, the survey indicates a measurable level of consumer curiosity. Apple should note this appeal, even as price and battery life continue to dominate purchasing decisions.