Apple is officially preparing to enter the foldable smartphone market, with mass production of its first foldable iPhone expected to begin in late Q3 or early Q4 2025, according to renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The highly anticipated foldable iPhone is reportedly set to launch in fall 2026 as part of the iPhone 18 lineup.
While many hardware specifications are still under wraps, Apple is finalising development, with Samsung Display confirmed as the supplier for the foldable screen.
Foldable iPhone Display and Design Details
According to insider sources and leaks, Apple’s foldable iPhone will feature:
- A 5.5-inch cover display when closed
- A 7.8-inch foldable screen when fully opened
- A book-style folding mechanism, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series
- An ultra-thin profile: ~4.5mm unfolded and 9–9.5mm when folded
- An advanced hinge design that minimizes or eliminates screen creasing
Apple is also expected to equip the device with under-display cameras and is reportedly considering Touch ID authentication over Face ID due to space limitations.
Production Timeline and Supplier Insights
Foxconn, Apple’s key manufacturing partner, will commence mass production in September or October 2025. Despite the fast-approaching schedule, several internal components and specs are still pending finalisation.
Meanwhile, Samsung Display is slated to produce 7–8 million foldable panels for Apple in 2026. Apple is expected to manufacture 15–20 million foldable iPhones, a supply expected to last 2–3 years due to limited initial demand.
Pricing and Market Strategy
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is targeting a premium market segment with the foldable iPhone, which may cost between $2,000 and $2,500 at launch. This price point reflects Apple’s investment in display technology, build quality, and hinge innovation.
Note: Kuo adds that Apple’s launch plans remain flexible, and the final 2026 release timeline is subject to change before the production phase is finalized.
Foldable iPhone: What to Expect
Key Features (Expected):
- Foldable 7.8-inch OLED display
- Thin and lightweight profile
- Under-display front camera
- Premium hinge with minimal crease
- Touch ID (in place of Face ID)
- Exclusive to iPhone 18 series
Launch Timeline:
- Production begins: September–October 2025
- Market launch expected: Fall 2026
Apple Joins Foldable Smartphone Race
With this announcement, Apple officially enters the growing foldable smartphone market, currently dominated by Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and Flip series. Unlike its competitors, Apple is placing a strong emphasis on minimal crease visibility, build durability, and premium user experience.
This foldable iPhone may serve as a multi-functional device, blending the portability of a smartphone with the usability of a compact tablet.
Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone marks a bold new chapter for the tech giant, combining cutting-edge display innovation, hardware engineering, and premium design. With production slated to begin in late 2025 and a launch planned for fall 2026, Apple fans and industry watchers alike are eager to see how the foldable iPhone reshapes the mobile market.
