Apple has reportedly started production of its first-ever foldable iPhone. According to sources, the foldable iPhone is expected to debut in 2026, marking Apple’s biggest design change since the original iPhone.
The foldable device will feature a 7.58-inch display with a unique 14.1:10 aspect ratio and a resolution of 2713 x 1920. Apple’s goal is to create a hybrid product that combines the portability of a smartphone with the large-screen experience of a tablet. Apple has partnered with Samsung Display as the exclusive supplier for its advanced OLED foldable panels.
Reports from South Korea published by ETNews said Samsung Display has already set up a dedicated production line at its A3 factory in Asan Chungcheongnam do. This facility is now in its final stages of preparation and will focus entirely on manufacturing panels for foldable iPhone.
It is estimated that Samsung’s factory will be able to produce 15 million 7-inch foldable OLED panels annually.
Apple appears to be confident in Samsung’s expertise. The company has signed a multi-year agreement that makes Samsung the sole supplier for the displays. Samsung is likely to remain exclusive supplier of Apple foldable iPhone displays for some time, analysts noted citing OLED leadership since 2019.
Apple decision to work closely with Samsung reflects determination to avoid early technical challenges affecting first-generation foldable devices from other. Issues like hinge failures and display creases are areas Apple is focusing on improving. The foldable iPhone will reportedly feature a new liquid metal hinge and a titanium frame to enhance durability.
The design of the foldable iPhone also points toward a sleek, ultra-thin body at just 4.5mm when unfolded. Apple will include a dual rear camera with wide and ultra-wide lenses, a super-thin inward-folding OLED display, and a next-generation A20 processor. In a departure from recent models, the foldable iPhone may rely on Touch ID instead of Face ID for security.
Apple’s upcoming foldable device could have BOM cost around $759 slightly lower than Samsung Z Fold SE $790 model cost. Cost savings on memory processors camera modules contribute to this figure helping reduce overall manufacturing expense significantly for Apple devices.
UBS reports also suggest Apple first foldable iPhone could launch price between $1,800 and $2,400 most expensive iPhone ever released. Estimates for initial production run range 6 to 8 million units plans expand production in coming years globally expected output.
Reports showed cautious approach reflects technical complexity and high cost foldables barriers to mass adoption in global smartphone market trends.
Industry experts point out that Apple’s foldable iPhone could also benefit its supply chain partners. Companies like Amphenol, Hirose, TDK, Avary, and SDI will see increased demand. Foxconn will handle the primary assembly, while Luxshare will act as a backup partner.
Even as the global foldable smartphone market shows signs of slowing, Apple’s presence may revitalize consumer interest. Analysts note that Apple’s late entry allows it to deliver a more refined product by learning from competitors’ mistakes.
Apple plans to launch the foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 lineup, including iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Air, iPhone 18 Pro, and iPhone 18 Pro Max models. Like other iPhones, Apple will likely refresh the foldable model every fall.
