Apple to Launch its First Foldable iPhone in Fall 2026: Ultra-Thin Design, Top-Tier Specs, 8-10 Million Initial Shipments

Apple to Launch its First Foldable iPhone in Fall 2026: Ultra-Thin Design, Top-Tier Specs, 8-10 Million Initial ShipmentsAccording to a February 7th report by Fast Technology, Apple plans to officially launch its first foldable iPhone in the fall of 2026, followed by foldable iPad and MacBook in 2027, marking a full-scale entry into the foldable device market. This highly anticipated foldable iPhone will boast a stunning large-fold design, measuring just 9

Apple to Launch its First Foldable iPhone in Fall 2026: Ultra-Thin Design, Top-Tier Specs, 8-10 Million Initial Shipments

According to a February 7th report by Fast Technology, Apple plans to officially launch its first foldable iPhone in the fall of 2026, followed by foldable iPad and MacBook in 2027, marking a full-scale entry into the foldable device market. This highly anticipated foldable iPhone will boast a stunning large-fold design, measuring just 9.2mm thick when folded, and an incredibly thin 4.6mm when unfolded on a single side. Unfolded, the screen will exceed 12 inches, equivalent to the combined screen area of two 6.1-inch iPhones, offering users a significantly wider visual experience.

To achieve such a slim design, Apple has meticulously chosen screen materials. The foldable iPhone is reportedly using a Samsung-exclusive OLED display paired with ultra-thin glass (UTG) technology developed by Lens Technology. The screen's individual component cost is estimated at $90-100, reflecting Apple's commitment to superior quality and thinness. The material for the screen's supporting frame is still under evaluation, with titanium alloy, stainless steel, and carbon fiber under consideration. Supplier Biel Crystal Manufactory has already submitted samples for testing.

For the hinge, a core component in foldable phones, Apple opted for an in-house design. The assembly cost of the hinge is currently around $110. Amphenol and Neway are involved in hinge production, with Biel Crystal Manufactory supplying internal components worth approximately $35. Furthermore, Jien Technology is contributing MIM (Metal Injection Molding) components valued at around $10-$20. Apple's meticulous hinge design and strict cost control reflect its emphasis on product quality and user experience.

To optimize the visual experience, Apple has also invested significant effort in the front-facing camera. It will utilize the ultra-thin MetaLens technology jointly developed by Largan Precision, Sunny Optical, and Lantech, ensuring high image quality while minimizing the camera's visual impact on the screen. The front camera module itself is a joint development by Foxconn and LG, further guaranteeing product quality and production efficiency.

For the rear main and ultrawide cameras, Apple employs a glass-plastic hybrid technology, primarily developed by Largan Precision, with Sunny Optical contributing to the molded glass technology. This approach aims to balance image quality and cost, offering a more cost-effective imaging system for users.

The battery will consist of two stainless steel shell batteries, totaling nearly 5000mAh, and utilize ATL's (Amperex Technology Limited) exclusive 3D stacking technology. This ensures both long battery life and safety while maintaining a slim profile.

Apple reportedly plans to initially ship 8 to 10 million foldable iPhones in 2026, increasing production to 20 million units in 2027. Foxconn will exclusively handle the manufacturing of the foldable iPhone in 2026. However, Luxshare Precision will join the production line in 2027, sharing the workload. This demonstrates Apple's proactive expansion of its supply chain to meet future market demand.

In summary, Apple's first foldable iPhone, slated for release in Fall 2026, reflects Apple's usual commitment to excellence in design, materials, technology, and supply chain management. Its ultra-thin body, large screen, advanced imaging system, and powerful battery life will undoubtedly make it a significant product. This launch not only signifies Apple's entry into the foldable phone market but will also drive further innovation within the industry. While the exact launch date and price remain undisclosed, its impressive specifications and leading technology are already generating significant industry and consumer interest. Apple's bold foray into the foldable segment promises to redefine the future of smartphones, and the initial shipment of 8 to 10 million units demonstrates Apple's confidence in the product and its competitiveness in the high-end market. The projected increase to 20 million units in 2027 further reflects an optimistic outlook on the future of the foldable phone market.

From a supply chain perspective, Apple's choice of top-tier partners, including Samsung, Lens Technology, Biel Crystal Manufactory, Amphenol, Neway, Jien Technology, Largan Precision, Sunny Optical, Lantech, Foxconn, LG, and ATL, underscores its stringent requirements for product quality and production efficiency. This collaboration ensures product quality and effective cost control, ultimately benefiting consumers with a more cost-effective product.

Apple's entry into the foldable phone market represents a significant disruption to the existing landscape. Its strong brand recognition, technological prowess, and robust supply chain position Apple to secure a prominent place in this market and lead the foldable phone segment into a new era. As technology advances and costs decrease, foldable phones are poised to become mainstream, a transition Apple's involvement will undoubtedly accelerate.