Apple's foldable iPhone development encounters technical hurdles, potentially delaying shipments to 2027. Learn about the challenges and production plans.
© A. Krivonosov
According to Nikkei, Apple is facing bigger-than-expected challenges in developing its foldable iPhone. Sources close to the project say technical issues emerged during early testing and could delay initial shipments by several months.
Nikkei reports that component suppliers have been notified about a possible schedule shift, while Apple is working actively to resolve the problems.
Rumors about a foldable iPhone have circulated since 2017. Meanwhile, Apple's main competitor Samsung already released its first foldable smartphone in 2019. Apple originally planned to introduce the device in fall 2026 alongside the iPhone 18, but technical difficulties with the hinge and display could push the release to 2027. The testing process involves six stages, and the foldable iPhone has so far completed only the fourth.
Although foldable models will likely account for less than 10% of total iPhone production, Apple expects them to become a key product for drawing attention to the company's smartphones. Production is planned for seven to eight million devices. Apple has not officially commented on the delay or the production issues.