Apple is preparing to start production of its long-rumored foldable iPhone later this year, with a launch planned for fall 2026, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The foldable iPhone will likely be part of the iPhone 18 lineup.
Production will begin around September or October 2025, with Foxconn handling assembly. Samsung Display has been selected to provide the foldable screens.
The new foldable iPhone is rumored to feature a 5.5-inch display when folded and expand to 7.8 inches when opened, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Fold. It could be as thin as 4.5mm unfolded, making it one of the slimmest foldables on the market.
Apple is reportedly working on a special hinge to reduce the crease and is considering using under-display cameras and possibly Touch ID for security.
Kuo predicts that Apple may order 15 to 20 million foldable units, with 7 to 8 million displays coming from Samsung in 2026. The price is expected to be high, around $2,000 to $2,500, making it a premium device aimed at a smaller group of buyers.
While Apple Watch Series 10 may have helped Apple test similar display technology, the full rollout of the foldable iPhone is still subject to change as Apple finalizes specifications.
If all goes as planned, fall 2026 could mark the start of a new era for iPhone users.
