Apple’s Initial Foldable iPhone: Production and Anticipations
The announcement regarding Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone has been eagerly awaited for several years, and it seems the unveiling is approaching. According to TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple supplier Foxconn is preparing to start the assembly of foldable iPhones by the conclusion of the third quarter or the beginning of the fourth quarter of this year.
Foldable iPhone Assembly on the Horizon
While the production’s commencement is imminent, Kuo highlights that “numerous component specifications […] have yet to be confirmed,” with the phone’s hinge being a significant area of focus. The hinge serves as a vital component in foldable devices, and Apple intends to refine it. Nonetheless, the foldable display has been settled, with Samsung Display gearing up to manufacture 7-8 million panels for a public rollout in 2026.
Market speculation indicates that Apple has already placed requests for 15-20 million foldable iPhones. To provide context, Apple sold about 37 million iPhone 16 units during the initial weekend of pre-orders last September. Kuo clarifies that this figure likely represents cumulative demand throughout the product’s 2–3 year lifespan, suggesting that the foldable iPhone could deliver several million units annually in 2027 and 2028, potentially owing to its high price point.
When to Anticipate the Initial Foldable iPhone
Sources indicate that Apple aims to unveil its foldable iPhone in fall 2026. However, Kuo cautions that “all plans are still subject to alteration prior to the formal project commencement.” Considering Apple’s recent difficulties with products like Vision Pro and Apple Intelligence, the schedule remains uncertain.
Once it finally launches, the foldable iPhone is projected to be priced above $2,000, signifying its premium nature.
