Highlights
- Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts Apple will announce its foldable iPhone in late 2026, but mass shipments may be delayed until 2027.
- The device is reportedly still in the design validation stage with production hurdles.
- It is expected to be a book-style foldable design with a 5.3–5.5″ cover display, 7.8″ internal screen and liquid metal hinges
Caption – This iPhone Fold is for representation purposes only. (Image credit – 9to5Mac)
Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone could run into supply constraints well into 2027. This was revealed by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo highlighting that this delay is expected even though the Cupertino giant is still expected to unveil the device in 2026.
The latest caution points to ongoing manufacturing and production challenges that could affect Apple’s first foldable smartphone once it moves toward mass production. Foxconn was earlier expected to kick off limited manufacturing before the end of this year.
However, the absence of concrete updates on that front suggests the so-called “iPhone Fold” may still be in the design validation phase, a stage where consistency and yield-related issues are not uncommon.
In a fresh research note, Kuo said, “Development of the foldable iPhone is behind earlier expectations, but the product is still expected to [sic] announce in 2H26. Due to early-stage yield and ramp-up challenges, smooth shipments may not occur until 2027. With limited supply and expected strong demand, the foldable iPhone could be facing shortages until at least the end of 2026.”
Kuo’s outlook echoes earlier concerns raised by Mizuho Securities, which had warned that the foldable iPhone’s launch could be pushed to 2027 if Apple requires additional time to finalise key design components, particularly the hinge mechanism. However, Kuo’s assessment suggests Apple is still targeting a fall 2026 reveal, with large-scale shipments likely slipping to a later timeline.
iPhone Fold – What We Know?
As for specifications, the foldable iPhone is expected to adopt a book-style form factor. Reports indicate it could feature a 5.3- to 5.5-inch cover display paired with a 7.8-inch internal screen. Apple is also said to be using liquid metal hinges to minimise visible creasing on the foldable panel.
Pricing is tipped to fall between $2,000 and $2,500, which would make it the most expensive iPhone Apple has ever released.
FAQs
Q1. When is Apple expected to announce the foldable iPhone?
Answer. Apple is reportedly targeting a fall 2026 reveal for the iPhone Fold, though mass shipments may not occur until 2027 due to production challenges.
Q2. What are the main reasons behind the potential shipping delays?
Answer. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo highlights early-stage yield issues, ramp-up difficulties, and hinge design validation as key factors that could cause supply shortages through 2026.
Q3. What specifications and pricing are expected for the iPhone Fold?
Answer. The device is tipped to feature a book-style design with a 5.3–5.5″ cover display, a 7.8″ internal screen, liquid metal hinges to reduce creasing, and a premium price range of $2,000–$2,500, making it Apple’s most expensive iPhone yet.