Apple’s Foldable iPhone Is Coming: Launch Set for Late 2026

After years of speculation and rumors, Apple’s first-ever foldable device, the iPhone Fold, is inching closer to reality. According to the renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, assembly manufacturer Hon Hai (Foxconn) is expected to begin official development of the foldable iPhone project by late Q3 or early Q4 2025.

However, Kuo also notes that Apple has yet to finalize many important components, including the highly anticipated hinge bearings. This highlights Apple’s meticulous approach to hardware engineering as it enters the foldable smartphone segment.

Ming-Chi Kuo shared the update via X (Twitter).

Samsung Display Already Prepping Foldable Panels for Apple

One of the few confirmed components is Samsung’s folding display. Reports suggest that Samsung Display (SDC) has been asked to dedicate a production capacity of 7–8 million foldable panels per year to Apple. While this figure may suggest a large-scale rollout, Kuo clarifies that actual screen shipments in 2026 will be lower due to a limited production window that year.

Foldable iPhone Expected in 2026, Limited Rollout Planned

Recent rumors suggest that Apple has placed an order for 15–20 million foldable iPhones. However, Kuo clarifies that this number refers to total lifecycle shipments spanning 2–3 years, not a single-year shipment volume.

This suggests a cautious rollout, with mass production expected to commence in the second half of 2026. Due to the expected high price tag, yearly sales in 2027 and 2028 are projected to remain in the low millions, placing the device in a niche, premium segment, much like the rollout of the Vision Pro.

All Plans Still Subject to Change

Despite increasing clarity, Kuo says nothing is set in stone. The final design, specifications, and production plans may shift before the project enters mass production.

Foldable iPhone: A Slow but Strategic Rollout

The slow and steady approach that Apple is taking with its foldable iPhone suggests that the Cupertino tech giant is prioritizing hardware perfection over speed to market. However, even with this deliberate approach, we could see a foldable iPhone as early as late 2026, with shipments ramping up gradually over the next few years.

Are you ready to fold? Let us know if you’d consider switching to a foldable iPhone.