Apple’s anticipated foldable iPhone, dubbed the iPhone Fold, may now launch in 2027 rather than 2026, with hinge and design complications cited as primary reasons for the delay, according to reports from Japanese investment firm Mizuho Securities.
Production Challenges
Mizuho Securities stated in a translated investor note: “It is not easy to mass-produce a foldable phone in the third quarter of 2026 and release it in September. It takes time to decide the final design and specification of Apple’s hinge.”
While a 2026 launch is not entirely ruled out, analysts expect production would fall five to seven million units short of previous estimates if Apple attempts the earlier timeline. The company has not finalised specifications for several key components, particularly the hinge mechanism.
Technical Hurdles
Foldable phones require durable, precise hinges that withstand thousands of folds without compromising performance. Apple appears to be prioritizing reliability over speed, ensuring the device meets premium standards. Even competitors like Samsung, who have shipped foldables for years, face challenges with scaling production and maintaining quality.
Mizuho’s analysts note Apple has yet to finalize other hardware specifications beyond the hinge, reflecting broader challenges of producing a first-generation foldable device meeting Apple’s quality benchmark.
Expected Specifications
According to recent reports, the outer display will measure 5.38 inches diagonally, while the inner display spans 7.58 inches—slightly smaller than earlier rumors suggesting 5.49 inches externally and 7.76 inches internally. When folded, the device will approximate the discontinued iPhone mini’s 5.4-inch size, while the inner display would be the largest iPhone screen ever.
Apple is expected to use a custom A20 Pro chipset optimized for multitasking, split-screen functionality, and energy efficiency. Early speculation suggests a 5,000–5,500 mAh battery, surpassing the iPhone 17 Pro Max capacity.
Market Entry Strategy
If launching alongside the iPhone 18 lineup in 2027, Apple may produce fewer units than initially planned due to foldable production complexities. The delay provides time to ensure reliable performance, hinge durability, and premium build quality.
Historical Context
iPhone Fold rumors have circulated since at least 2018, with successive leaks promising releases “one year away.” Despite the wait, anticipation remains high for Apple’s entry into the foldable market, offering dual screens, powerful processing, and robust build quality characteristic of the company’s product philosophy.
