Apple has moved its long-awaited foldable iPhone into the prototype phase. The device is on track for a 2026 launch after years of rumors and speculation.
Prototype Testing Begins
Apple started the initial Prototype 1 (P1) phase in June 2025, according to DigiTimes. Supply chain sources confirm the company is working with suppliers to test early versions of the foldable device.
The prototype testing should finish by the end of 2025. Apple will then move to the Engineering Verification Test (EVT) stage before launching in the second half of 2026.
Development Timeline
Apple follows a specific development process for new products. The P1 phase leads to P2 and P3 phases, with each stage taking about two months.
During prototype testing, Apple’s supply chain partners run limited trials. They then hand over assembly duties to main iPhone manufacturers Foxconn and Pegatron. These companies check production yields and manufacturing feasibility.
The foldable iPhone development now matches Apple’s typical product timeline. Prototype phases happen about a year before EVT, Design Verification Test (DVT), and Mass Production (MP) stages begin.
For comparison, the iPhone 17 lineup completed its EVT phase in the second quarter of 2025.
Foldable iPad Project Paused
Apple has put its foldable iPad project on hold. The tablet was originally planned to launch around the same time as the foldable iPhone.
Several factors led to this decision:
- Manufacturing difficulties
- High production costs for flexible display technology
- Low consumer demand for large foldable devices
The company is focusing resources on the foldable iPhone instead.
2026 Launch Expected
Apple’s first foldable iPhone will likely launch with the iPhone 18 lineup in fall 2026. This timing puts Apple several years behind competitors like Samsung and Google, who already sell foldable phones.
However, Apple typically waits to perfect new technology before releasing products. The company’s approach often results in more polished devices compared to early market entries.
What to Expect
Details about the foldable iPhone remain limited. The device will likely feature a flexible display that allows it to fold in half, similar to existing foldable phones from other manufacturers.
Apple’s version may include unique features or design elements that differentiate it from competitors. The company often adds its own innovations to established product categories.
The foldable iPhone represents Apple’s entry into a growing but still niche market. Foldable phones offer larger screens in more compact forms, appealing to users who want tablet-like displays in phone-sized devices.
Production challenges and high costs have limited foldable phone adoption so far. Apple’s entry could help mainstream the technology if the company can address these issues.
The 2026 timeline gives Apple time to refine the technology and potentially reduce costs before launch.
