Apple has big things planned, including its first foldable iPhone, the 20th anniversary iPhone, a low-cost MacBook, and more. These are, besides the usual yearly iPhone refresh. Among them, the iPhone Fold is easily the most anticipated, especially since the competition is racing ahead. However, Apple’s first foldable iPhone could see limited supply into 2027, despite plans to launch next year.
Apple’s foldable iPhone could see limited supply next year
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, in his latest research note, says that the development of the foldable iPhone is behind earlier expectations . However, it will still debut in the second half of 2026, as per his prediction. However, owing to early-stage yield and ramp-up challenges, smooth shipments may not begin until 2027. It could be hard to get the foldable iPhone until at least the end of 2026 owing to limited supply and possibly strong demand.
This development suggests that Apple’s foldable iPhone device may face serious manufacturing obstacles when it enters mass production. Foxconn was reportedly set to begin limited production of the device before the end of the year, but since we haven’t come across reports on that front, the foldable iPhone may still be in the engineering validation stage.
The foldable will still launch in 2026
Mizuho Securities previously noted the launch might push to 2027 if Apple takes longer to finalize design elements like the hinge mechanism. For what it’s worth, Kuo is still sticking to the 2026 timeline. But it appears that large volume shipping might see a delay.
The foldable iPhone may feature a book-style design. It could get around a 5.3- to 5.5-inch outer display and a larger 7.8 inner screen. It will reportedly use liquid metal hinges to achieve a nearly crease-free display . Apple’s iPhone Fold could cost around $2,400 , making it the most expensive iPhone ever.