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Written by
Ameer Hamza
Introduction
Apple First Foldable iPhone looks ready to compete foldable phone market in Fall 2026. If true, the move would push foldables from a niche to a mainstream premium segment. Reports from supply-chain analysts and industry outlets indicate panels, hinges and assembly plans are now in motion — a major signal for buyers, developers and rival makers.
Apple foldable iPhone expected launch fall 2026
Multiple analysts and reports now point to a late-2026 launch window for Apple’s first foldable iPhone. Ming-Chi Kuo says suppliers will kick off project work in late Q3 or early Q4 2025, with mass production targeted for the second half of 2026.
This timing aligns with Apple’s usual September iPhone cycle, making a September 2026 unveiling a realistic expectation. Market watchers say Apple would likely call the device part of the next major iPhone family.
First foldable Apple phone leaks
Leaks describe a book-style fold (like current Galaxy Fold models) rather than a clamshell. Rumors give an internal screen around 7.8 inches and an outer screen near 5.5 inches. Insiders also point to premium materials such as titanium or strengthened alloy frames.
A key leak: Apple reportedly plans to use laser-drilled metal plates under the display to reduce or remove the visible crease. That technique — tied to suppliers like Fine M-Tec and Samsung Display — aims to spread stress at the fold and keep the screen visually flat.
Apple foldable prototype timeline
Reports indicate Apple advanced prototypes through New Product Introduction (NPI) earlier in 2025. Foxconn (assembly) moved some units into early production steps, and Samsung Display began preparing panels on dedicated lines. These steps suggest Apple has moved beyond early concept work into supplier integration.
Expect iterative hardware tests through late 2025. That time will let Apple refine hinge durability, screen lamination and software behaviors unique to a foldable form. Multiple public and trade reports emphasize the timeline remains fluid; Apple can delay if tests show issues.
Apple foldable device release date
Analysts now estimate an official launch in fall 2026, with initial shipments likely limited. Ming-Chi Kuo and others forecast initial orders in the single-digit millions for 2026, expanding in 2027 as yields improve and costs drop. That cautious ramp mirrors how other makers introduced foldables.
Pricing will likely be premium. Early forecasts place retail north of $1,800–$2,000, positioning Apple’s first foldable as a luxury device aimed at high-end buyers. Expect Apple to emphasize build quality, software polish and ecosystem fit to justify price.
Upcoming Apple foldable smartphone news
Samsung remains the main rival. Both companies appear to target H2 2026 crease-reduction technology, setting up a close-timed competition. Samsung Display is reportedly producing millions of purpose-built foldable panels for Apple and others, so supply capacity is improving.
Market context: foldables were about 1.6% of global smartphone sales in 2025, per TrendForce. Apple’s entry could lift adoption by attracting iPhone buyers who want a larger, multi-tasking screen inside a familiar ecosystem. Analysts expect penetration to grow if prices and durability improve.
What the average buyer should know (quick bullets)
- Launch window: Fall 2026 likely, but Apple can shift the date.
- Display: Crease-reducing laser-drilled plates are expected, aiming for a near crease-free inner screen.
- Sizes: ~7.8″ inner and ~5.5″ outer screens are commonly reported.
- Supply: Samsung Display and others are preparing panel lines; Foxconn is the main assembler in reports.
- Price: Expected premium — likely above $1,800 on launch.
Reporting standards & sources used
I used recent industry reports and supply-chain commentary to avoid speculation and keep claims traceable. The most important, load-bearing items above are supported by these sources: Ming-Chi Kuo (supply notes), MacRumors coverage of Kuo and Samsung Display, TrendForce market data, Tom’s Guide/ETNews on panel production, and Macworld reporting on laser-drilled plate tech.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Apple’s first foldable iPhone expected to launch?
Analysts and leaks currently point to a fall 2026 debut, with key suppliers preparing for mass production in late 2025.
What new technology will Apple’s foldable iPhone feature?
Rumors say it will use a crease-reducing, laser-drilled display plate for a nearly crease-free inner screen, plus a large inner OLED (around 7.8″) and a smaller outer display (around 5.5″). Premium materials and under-display or side-integrated biometric options are also expected.
Who is reporting on the foldable iPhone timeline?
Supply-chain analysts and major tech outlets—most notably Ming-Chi Kuo and reporting from outlets like Bloomberg and industry analysts—have circulated the current timeline and production hints.
How does the foldable iPhone timing compare to competitors?
Apple’s rumored fall 2026 window aligns closely with Samsung’s planned next-generation crease-free foldables, suggesting a head-to-head release period in late 2026.
