Apple's ambitious entry into the foldable smartphone market, the much-anticipated iPhone Fold, is reportedly headed for a rocky start. According to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the device could face significant supply shortages lasting well into 2027, despite plans for an official announcement in the fall of 2026.
Production Delays and Supply Crunch Forecast
In a recent research note, Ming-Chi Kuo highlighted that the development of the foldable iPhone is lagging behind initial expectations. He expects Apple to unveil the device in the second half of 2026. However, early-stage manufacturing challenges and yield issues are likely to severely limit its availability immediately after launch.
Kuo warns that smooth, consistent shipments may not begin until 2027. This means consumers could face a supply crunch lasting well over a year, stretching at least until the end of 2026. The limited supply, coupled with the expected strong demand for Apple's first foldable, is set to create a challenging scenario for buyers.
Design and Manufacturing Hurdles
The production difficulties mirror the typical challenges faced in early foldable device development. Apple's manufacturing partner, Foxconn, is currently conducting trial production at its Guanlan facility in China. A key bottleneck is the display manufacturing process, which is grappling with significant defect rates that teams are working to resolve.
When it finally arrives, the iPhone Fold will mark a distinct design departure from competitors like Samsung. Instead of a vertical flip-style, Apple's device will adopt a horizontal folding mechanism, similar to a book. It is expected to feature a 5.3-inch outer display and a larger 7.7-inch inner screen, offering an iPad-like experience when unfolded.
Premium Build and Strategic Importance
The device's premium construction involves specialized materials from Corning and Schott, with layered display components supplied by Lens Technology and Biel Crystal. This high-end build comes at a steep price; estimates suggest the iPhone Fold could cost around $2,400, making it Apple's most expensive iPhone ever.
Kuo emphasized that Apple views the foldable iPhone as a critical product to maintain its market momentum in the years before smart glasses with displays become mainstream. The larger folding screen is seen as advantageous for displaying AI-driven multimodal content, positioning the device as a strategic bridge between current smartphones and the future of wearable computing.
The iPhone Fold is anticipated to be announced alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in fall 2026, representing one of Apple's most aggressive product expansion strategies in iPhone history.
