Apple is preparing to begin production of its first foldable iPhone by the end of Q3 or early Q4 in 2025, according to reliable industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Assembly will reportedly be handled by Foxconn, though many hardware details — including the hinge design — are still in development.
Display Finalized, Panel Production by Samsung
While most components remain in progress, Kuo notes that the foldable display has already reached its final specification. Samsung Display has been selected as the panel supplier and is working to establish production capacity of 7 to 8 million foldable screens per year.
However, as manufacturing for the initial model is expected to span only part of 2026, actual shipments that year may be lower than capacity.
Multi-Year Shipment Plan
Apple is believed to have placed an order for 15 to 20 million foldable iPhones, but this volume will be spread across a two to three-year period, not just the launch year.
Kuo projects 3 to 5 million units could be shipped in 2026, with additional units following in 2027 and 2028. This approach suggests Apple expects a gradual adoption curve, partly due to the premium price point anticipated for the new device.
Design and Hardware Expectations
Kuo’s earlier analysis from March 2025 outlined several expected features: a book-style foldable format, a 7.8-inch internal display, a 5.5-inch external screen, and a side-mounted Touch ID sensor. The device is also said to feature a titanium alloy chassis, a dual-camera system, and ultra-thin design — measuring under 5mm when unfolded.
Launch Timeline
Apple is currently targeting a fall 2026 release for the foldable iPhone, likely aligning with the iPhone 18 series. However, as of mid-2025, Kuo emphasizes that these plans could still shift depending on how development progresses.