Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone may arrive later than originally anticipated, as new supply chain insights suggest a potential delay to 2027. According to Mizuho Securities, Apple continues to refine key design elements, particularly the hinge and flexible OLED display, both of which have proven to be more complex than initial projections indicated. This cautious approach, while extending the timeline, underscores Apple’s commitment to durability and precision over rapid market entry.
Apple may delay its first foldable iPhone until 2027 as hinge and display complexities slow production and testing
The firm’s analysis also revealed that estimated panel production has been reduced from 13 million to approximately 9 million units, a significant adjustment that hints at slower early-stage manufacturing readiness. Although 2026 remains a possibility, the company’s internal testing standards could push the release further away, especially if durability and yield concerns persist.
The foldable iPhone was initially speculated to debut alongside the iPhone 18 lineup, but Apple might now reserve it for a standalone launch to emphasize its engineering leap. The delay reflects the company’s traditional strategy of prioritizing product excellence over being first.
Foldable devices remain prone to issues like hinge wear, display creasing, and waterproofing limitations. These are all aspects that Apple will not compromise on, ultimately leading to delays. Moreover, if the company takes the wrong step at this stage, it could tarnish years of brand trust, which is why the company is willing to accept short-term delays for long-term product integrity and consumer confidence.
Apple’s broader foldable ambitions extend beyond iPhone toward future MacBook models
The Elec also reports that Apple’s broader foldable roadmap involves an 18.9-inch foldable MacBook aimed for a 2028 launch or possibly 2029, if things remain under testing for long. Apple has a history of introducing advanced technologies in its devices, but only after years of refinement, and the Vision Pro is the perfect example of this hypothesis.
Such timelines also give suppliers ample time to mature manufacturing processes and achieve higher yields for foldable OLED panels. However, the end user might grow wary of Apple’s plans since the competition from Samsung and other Chinese manufacturers is quite tough. Huawei has unveiled its Mate XT TriFold, which are quite competitive and hard to beat in the real world.
Apple must leverage software magic to justify its foldable design
Apple must perform its software magic to create real-world uses for a bigger internal screen; only then could it directly compete against market leaders of the present. We have previously reported that the company will include a foldable-centric approach with iOS, but it remains to be seen if there is any difference compared to the standard iPhone models.
Rumors have suggested that Apple’s first foldable iPhone will feature a 7.6-inch internal display and a 5.4-inch external display, which is the perfect balance between portability and an immersive tablet-like experience. Would a foldable iPhone truly offer more value and innovation than the upcoming iPhone 18 lineup?
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