Apple is preparing to enter the foldable smartphone race with its long-rumored Foldable iPhone, which is expected to enter production later this year. While the company has yet to officially confirm the device, prominent analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims that Foxconn, Apple’s manufacturing partner, is gearing up to begin work on the Foldable iPhone by the end of Q3 or early Q4 of 2025.
According to Kuo, one of the standout elements of the Foldable iPhone will be its display. The phone is likely to feature a foldable display supplied by Samsung Display, one of the leading flexible panel makers in the industry. Reports suggest that Samsung Display is preparing to manufacture between 7 to 8 million units of the flexible panels exclusively for the Foldable iPhone.
However, not all components of the Foldable iPhone have been finalized. Key elements, such as the metal hinge system, are still under development. Apple appears to be carefully refining the engineering of the device, and the final specifications may evolve in the coming months.
Foldable iPhone Launch Timeline
As of now, the Foldable iPhone is expected to launch in the second half of 2026, although there’s a possibility of delays. Apple has reportedly placed orders for 15–20 million units to meet anticipated demand across a 2–3 year lifecycle.
Kuo noted that due to the late production window in 2026, panel shipments may fall short of full capacity, resulting in limited availability at launch. However, Apple is expected to ship several million units annually in both 2027 and 2028, which suggests a strong multi-year rollout strategy.
Foldable iPhone Display Sizes and Pricing
Rumors indicate that Apple’s Foldable iPhone may feature a 5.5-inch outer display and a 7.8-inch foldable inner screen. This book-style design mirrors current trends seen in foldable devices from Samsung and Huawei.
As for pricing, the Foldable iPhone is speculated to cost around $2,300 (approx. ₹1,99,000) for the base variant in the United States. This positions the product firmly in the ultra-premium category, targeting high-end users and Apple enthusiasts.
Despite its premium cost, demand is expected to be robust due to Apple’s brand appeal and innovation track record. The Foldable iPhone is likely to ship in limited quantities initially, giving it an exclusive allure.
Is the Foldable iPhone the Future of Apple?
The Foldable iPhone represents a major shift in Apple’s smartphone strategy. While Samsung, Huawei, and others have already explored foldable designs, Apple has taken a more cautious approach—focusing on refinement, long-term support, and quality engineering.
Although nothing is confirmed yet, the pieces are falling into place for Apple’s most significant iPhone redesign since the iPhone X. From hinge design to display production and volume planning, Apple appears ready to step into the foldable market with confidence.
