Analysts Anticipate Foldable iPhone: Is AAPL Stock a Smart Buy?

Apple Inc. (AAPL) is under the spotlight as anticipation builds for its upcoming product launch, specifically a foldable iPhone expected in the fall of 2026. This potential innovation has analysts eager to discuss the implications for investors. According to Ming-Chi Kuo, a prominent analyst at TF International Securities, initial shipments of the foldable device may range between 3 million to 5 million units in 2026, but are expected to surge to 20 million in 2027.

The anticipated model could feature an ultra-thin glass design that poses execution risks due to its susceptibility to cracks. This material is significantly more expensive than traditional glass, potentially leading to retail prices exceeding $2,000. Despite these challenges, the strong loyalty of Apple’s customer base may drive significant replacement demand if the quality meets expectations. The foldable iPhone could include a 7.8-inch internal display, a 5.5-inch exterior panel, Touch ID, dual lenses, and a robust stainless steel-titanium hinge.

Market Performance and Investor Sentiment

With a market capitalization of approximately $4 trillion, Apple continues to be a dominant force in the technology sector. The company’s stock has appreciated by 9.56% over the past year, bolstered by a remarkable 39.2% increase in the last six months. In the most recent three-month period, AAPL shares rose 11.47%, significantly outperforming the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 Index, which gained just 2.3%.

AAPL currently trades at 33.55 times forward adjusted earnings and 8.92 times forward sales, reflecting a premium compared to industry averages. This indicates market expectations for sustained growth and strong profit margins. Additionally, Apple has maintained a consistent dividend payout, currently at $1.04 annually, which yields 0.38%. The most recent dividend of $0.26 was distributed on November 13, 2025, to shareholders on record as of November 10.

On October 30, 2025, Apple reported its Q4 financial results, which exceeded market expectations. Revenue increased by 7.9% year-over-year to $102.5 billion, surpassing forecasts of $101.2 billion. Earnings per share (EPS) rose by 90.7% compared to the previous year, reaching $1.85 against a consensus estimate of $1.73. This strong performance was attributed to solid demand across both hardware and services.

The rollout of the iPhone 17 series, coupled with strong sales of the MacBook Air, contributed significantly to these results. iPhone revenue hit a record $49 billion during the September quarter, marking a 6% increase year-over-year. This surge in sales has pushed Apple’s active installed base to an all-time high, enhancing the company’s long-term monetization potential through upgrades and services.

Future Projections and Analyst Ratings

Looking ahead, Apple management anticipates a record December quarter, projecting revenue growth of 10% to 12% year-over-year. This optimism is based on expected double-digit growth in iPhone sales, ongoing strength in services, and continued investments in artificial intelligence and research and development.

Analysts share this positive outlook, forecasting a 10.4% year-over-year increase in Q1 EPS for fiscal 2026, bringing it to $2.65. They predict a full-year fiscal 2026 EPS growth of 8.7% to $8.11, followed by an additional 12.5% increase to $9.12 in fiscal year 2027.

Morgan Stanley analyst Erik Woodring recently raised his price target for AAPL stock to $315 from $305, maintaining a “Buy” rating. This aligns with a broader sentiment on Wall Street, where AAPL carries a “Moderate Buy” consensus rating. Among 40 analysts covering the stock, 21 classify it as a “Strong Buy,” three as “Moderate Buy,” 14 recommend “Hold,” while only one suggests “Moderate Sell” and one “Strong Sell.” The average price target stands at $290.85, indicating a potential upside of 6.3% from current levels, while the highest target of $350 suggests a possible gain of 27.9%.

As Apple gears up for its next major product cycle, the question remains for investors: is now the right time to buy AAPL stock in anticipation of a new era defined by foldable technology?