Apple may delay the launch of its first foldable iPhone until the fourth quarter of 2026, according to TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. While the device could be announced in September alongside the iPhone 18, limited initial production will likely push sales back. This rollout strategy mirrors the staggered release of the iPhone X in 2017.
Suppliers expect to ship fewer than one million units in the third quarter of 2026. This figure is a fraction of the 20 million to 22 million units anticipated for iPhone 18 Pro models. Total shipments for the foldable device are forecasted to reach 7 million to 8 million units for the second half of 2026.
High manufacturing complexity and production challenges are driving the supply constraints. The foldable iPhone is expected to carry a premium price tag between $2,300 and $2,500. Strong demand coupled with low supply will likely result in consumer shipping delays of four to six weeks or more.