Users will likely have to wait longer than expected to get their hands on Apple’s first foldable iPhone – the iPhone Fold.
Many sources suggest that Apple is preparing to launch its first foldable iPhone – the iPhone Fold – in the fall of 2026, around the same time as the iPhone 18 Pro series.
However, while the announcement plan may remain unchanged, getting the product into consumers’ hands is another story.
Production issues and the need to expand production lines could cause significant delays to the iPhone Fold compared to initial expectations.
The iPhone Fold might be in limited supply.
According to a new research report from renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is behind schedule in the development of the iPhone Fold.
While the company will likely still announce the device in the second half of 2026, deliveries could be affected by issues related to component completion rates and the acceleration of mass production.
These difficulties could lead to a minimal supply in the first few months after launch.
Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that the combination of low production and very high demand will cause the iPhone Fold to be in short supply, at least until the end of 2027.
With a completely new and iconic product like the foldable iPhone, this is clearly a scenario Apple does not want.
Ming-Chi Kuo is one of the most highly regarded Apple analysts, but his latest assessment contradicts some prior information.
Previously, reports indicated that the iPhone Fold had passed prototype testing and moved on to pre-production testing.
Shortly after, another report claimed Apple only needed to fine-tune a few minor details before beginning mass production.
Furthermore, leaked CAD drawings surfaced, revealing the device’s specific dimensions. This information led many to believe that the iPhone Fold was very close to completion.
However, if Ming-Chi Kuo’s assessment is accurate, Apple may still be facing greater technical hurdles than initially predicted.
The distinctive folding design and the ambition for a “crease-free” design
According to current rumors, the iPhone Fold will have a book-like design, with a 5.5-inch outer screen and an inner screen up to 7.7 inches.
Apple is particularly focused on the ability to unfold a large screen with virtually no creases, something that Android competitors have yet to fully address.
This ambition may also be the reason for the complexity of the production process. Creating a durable, flat, foldable screen that meets Apple’s stringent quality standards requires advanced technology and a low failure rate, which is not easy in the early stages.
Unsurprisingly, the iPhone Fold is expected to be the most expensive iPhone ever, priced between $2,000 and $2,500.
While Apple is still grappling with the production challenge, its competitors are not standing still.
Huawei, the dominant brand in China’s foldable phone market, has just launched the Mate X7 and is expected to release the Pura X2 early next year.
Samsung is also preparing the Galaxy Z Fold 8, building on the resounding success of the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
In addition, Motorola is rumored to be launching a book-style foldable phone in 2026.
This means Apple will be entering an already crowded playing field, where consumers have more choices and much higher expectations.
Any supply chain or quality issues could cause the iPhone Fold to lose its initial advantage.
The iPhone Fold is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated smartphones of 2026. However, if Apple fails to secure sufficient production to meet market demand, this launch could quickly turn into a major flop.
Especially given that Apple hasn’t fully recovered from the disappointments surrounding Apple Intelligence and the iPhone Air, another failure would be a significant blow to the company’s innovative image.
Therefore, even if it means delaying deliveries, Apple will likely prioritize stability and perfection over haste. With the iPhone Fold, Apple has no room for error.
source (Vietnamese)
