Apple has reportedly started production of its first-ever foldable iPhone. According to sources, the foldable iPhone is expected to make its debut in 2026, presenting 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 that 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 the 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 is said to have signed a multi-year agreement, ensuring Samsung remains the sole supplier for the displays. “Samsung is likely to remain the exclusive supplier of Apple’s foldable iPhone displays for some time,” noted analysts, citing Samsung’s technological leadership in foldable OLED panels since 2019.
The decision to work closely with Samsung reflects Apple’s determination to avoid the early technical challenges that plagued first-generation foldables from other brands. 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 is expected to include a dual rear camera system with wide and ultra-wide lenses, a super-thin inward-folding OLED display with no visible crease, and its next-generation “A20” processor. In a departure from recent models, the foldable iPhone may rely on Touch ID instead of Face ID for security.
According to a report, Apple’s upcoming foldable device could have a bill of materials (BOM) cost of around $759, slightly lower than Samsung’s Z Fold SE at $790. Cost savings on memory, processors, and camera modules contribute to this figure. UBS reports also suggest Apple’s first foldable iPhone could launch at a price between $1,800 and $2,400, positioning it as the most expensive iPhone to date.
Estimates for the initial production run range from 6 to 8 million units, with plans to expand production in the coming years. Reports showed that this cautious approach reflects the technical complexity and high cost of foldable devices, which remain barriers to mass adoption.
Industry experts point out that Apple’s foldable iPhone could also benefit its supply chain partners. Companies like Amphenol, Hirose, TDK, Avary, and SDI are expected to 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.
The foldable iPhone is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 lineup, including the iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Air, iPhone 18 Pro, and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Like other iPhones, the foldable model is likely to be refreshed annually in the fall.
