Apple’s First Foldable iPhone Nears Production
Apple has secured component orders for 80 million foldable smartphones, slated for the second half of 2026. This batch includes upcoming models such as the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the company’s debut foldable iPhone. Apple’s total annual output in 2026 is expected to exceed 220 million devices, with potential orders for 85 million new iPhones in the latter half of the year. For context, this marks Apple’s aggressive push into the foldable segment, a market where rivals like Samsung have already established a presence.
The company has also requested that suppliers reserve components for the iPhone 17, which will eventually integrate into the iPhone 18 lineup. While competitors like Xiaomi and Oppo have scaled back their annual production targets to below 100 million devices due to memory shortages, Apple continues to ramp up preparations for its next-generation models. Engineering hurdles related to the foldable iPhone’s hinge mechanism have been resolved, clearing the path for its anticipated release.
Foldable iPhone Specifications and Pricing
The foldable iPhone will feature a 7.8-inch internal display and a 5.5-inch external screen. It will also include Touch ID instead of Face ID, be powered by the A20 chip, and incorporate Apple’s C2 modem. The device is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models in September 2026.
According to IDC forecasts, the average price for the foldable iPhone (Fold) will be $2,500 (approximately 112,000 Ukrainian hryvnias), while top-tier storage variants could cost up to $3,000 (around 134,000 Ukrainian hryvnias).
The arrival of the foldable iPhone could mark a pivotal milestone in Apple’s product evolution, as the company aims to stay competitive in a market where other manufacturers have already introduced similar devices.
Given that competitors are cutting production plans due to supply chain issues, Apple may seize this opportunity to strengthen its market position. It will also be crucial to monitor consumer response to the new technologies integrated into the foldable iPhone, as this could determine the product’s ultimate success or failure in the marketplace.
As Apple prepares to unveil its foldable iPhone, the company is also looking ahead to its next-generation devices. Interestingly, the upcoming iPhone Air, featuring a dual-camera system, is set to launch in Spring 2027, highlighting Apple's commitment to innovation and expanding its product lineup. This strategic approach could further enhance its competitive edge in the evolving smartphone market.