A prominent analyst has shared details on Apple's plans to launch a foldable iPhone, which will compete against the likes of the Google Pixel Fold and the Galaxy Z Fold lineup. The analyst has now shared details on the highly anticipated device, which gives us more insights into the launch and specifications of the foldable iPhone.
Analyst reveals Apple’s foldable iPhone details, but lingering design decisions could delay its true innovation breakthrough
Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims that Apple supplier Foxconn is set to "kick off the project" later this year, potentially in the third or fourth quarter. However, he also claims that numerous component specifications are yet to be finalized. Kuo claims that the display specifications of the foldable iPhone still need to be finalized. We have previously heard details on the display, but based on the latest remarks from Kuo, the company could make some last-minute changes.
One of the biggest threats that could alter the foldable iPhone experience is the crease on the inner display. We have seen a plethora of Android foldable devices on the market, each of which suffers the same problem, some more than the rest, but there are no options without a crease. The reason why Apple is taking a long time with the foldable iPhone could boil down to the same dilemma, which gives us an indication that the crease on Apple's iteration could be non-existent.
We have previously reported that Apple is working with Samsung to produce a display that does not have a crease on the front, but it remains to be seen how well the final product turns out. Here's what the analyst says about the display specifications of the foldable iPhone:
The foldable display is one of the few components with finalized specifications and serves as a good reference for estimating potential shipments. Samsung Display (SDC) plans to build annual production capacity for 7-8 million foldable panels to supply the 2026 foldable iPhone. Given that actual production in 2026 may span only a few months, panel shipments that year are likely to fall short of full capacity.
Another component that needs to be finalized is the stainless steel and titanium alloy hinge, which the company has potentially designed to enhance durability. Kuo says that the component "has yet to be finalized." The analyst also states that the hinge "has drawn considerable market attention."
Assembly supplier Foxconn is expected to officially kick off the project in late 3Q25 or early 4Q25. As of now, many component specifications (including the hinge, which has drawn considerable market attention) have yet to be finalized.
If you are not familiar with how the supply chain works, Foxconn will begin its work on the foldable iPhone later this year, but mass production of the device will take time. You should expect mass production to begin in the latter half of 2026. Apple's foldable iPhone will feature a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch outer display, which could also make it Apple's incarnated 'mini' iPhone, to a certain level. The foldable is also slated to be 4.5mm thin when opened and as much as 9.5mm thick when unfolded. We will keep you updated with the latest details, so do stick around for more.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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