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Apple is expected to begin assembling its first foldable iPhone as early as late Q3 or early Q4 2025, according to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The project will reportedly be handled by long-time partner Foxconn.
Kuo says many components, including the complex hinge mechanism, are still being finalised. However, Samsung Display is already preparing production lines to manufacture up to 8 million foldable panels per year, likely in anticipation of Apple’s 2026 launch.
Rumours of a 15-20-million-unit order from Apple appear to reflect cumulative demand over a 2–3 year cycle, not just the launch year. Initial shipments in 2026 could be limited to 3–5 million units, with steady demand extending into 2027 and 2028.
What to Expect: Design and features
The foldable iPhone is expected to adopt a book-style design with a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch external cover screen. It may feature a titanium alloy body and a stainless steel-titanium hinge for added durability.
Thickness is projected at 9-9.5mm when folded and 4.5–4.8mm when opened, mirroring leaked specs for Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Z Fold7. Touch ID is rumoured to return as a side-mounted sensor, replacing Face ID due to internal space constraints.
Beyond its folding screen, Apple may position the device as its first AI-native iPhone. The larger display is expected to support multitasking use cases such as planning a trip with a chatbot while viewing a map in real-time.
Kuo had previously said that he expects a premium price tag between $2,000 and $2,500 (₹1.74-2.17 lakh approx), but believes Apple loyalists will drive strong demand if the device meets the brand’s usual hardware and software standards.
Despite mounting supply chain chatter, Apple has yet to confirm the existence of such a device. Still, speculation has intensified in recent months, and CEO Tim Cook added fuel to the fire last year, speaking during the company’s Q1FY25 earnings call in January. “I think there's a lot more to come…I could not feel more optimistic about our product pipeline,” he said.
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