Apple’s first foldable iPhone faces delays, limited availability likely until 2027

Apple is still targeting a 2026 unveiling for its first foldable iPhone, but manufacturing hurdles and yield issues could restrict supply, resulting in limited availability for months after launch, according to industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

Apple’s long-anticipated entry into the foldable smartphone market appears to be progressing slower than planned, even as the company remains committed to launching the device in the second half of 2026. Renowned supply-chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has indicated that production and manufacturing challenges are pushing the project behind schedule, potentially affecting availability well beyond the official announcement.

Despite the delays, Apple is reportedly determined to introduce the foldable iPhone next year, viewing the category as a necessary step in the evolution of smartphones. However, the company may struggle to scale production quickly, raising the possibility of prolonged shortages even after the device is formally unveiled.

Manufacturing challenges cloud production timeline

According to Kuo, early-stage manufacturing hurdles, including low production yields and difficulties in ramping up assembly, are slowing progress. These challenges could prevent Apple from achieving smooth shipment volumes until sometime in 2027. As a result, consumers may face tight supply through much of 2026, particularly in the months immediately following launch.

Kuo noted that Apple could still announce the foldable iPhone as scheduled but may not be able to deliver it in meaningful quantities right away. He likened the situation to the iPhone X debut, which was revealed on time but reached customers later than expected due to production constraints. Some buyers may only gain access to the foldable model toward the end of 2026 or even into the following year.

Design, pricing and market expectations

Reports suggest Apple’s first foldable iPhone will adopt a book-style form factor, similar to existing foldable smartphones, but with a strong emphasis on premium build quality. The device is expected to feature a near crease-free inner display, liquid metal hinges for durability, and a large foldable screen complemented by a smaller outer display.

The foldable iPhone is also tipped to run on Apple’s next-generation A-series processor and may rely on Touch ID rather than Face ID. It is likely to be offered as an eSIM-only model, continuing Apple’s gradual move away from physical SIM cards in some markets.

Pricing is expected to place the device firmly in the ultra-premium category, with estimates ranging between $2,000 and $2,500. While early shipment forecasts have varied, Kuo cautioned that these projections could be revised lower if manufacturing issues persist, potentially limiting Apple’s initial impact in the foldable segment.