June 26, 2026, 3:45 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Apple has apparently largely completed the development of its first foldable iPhone. According to supply chain sources, mass production is set to begin at the end of July. Despite interim speculation about delays due to hinge issues, the iPhone Fold is still expected to be unveiled in September.
Apple Completes Preparations for Mass Production
Apple has finalized the key specifications of its first foldable iPhone, including the display, casing, and mechanical components. As reported by the South Korean portal “The Elec” with insights from supply chain information, the final preparations for mass production are underway.
The initial test production began in April. During this phase, construction, components, assembly processes, and quality standards were tested under real manufacturing conditions. This step is considered the final verification phase before mass production of new products. Foxconn is expected to handle the first production batch. Mass production is anticipated to start at the end of July, and the unveiling in September is still on schedule. Initial hints in the iOS 27 code have already been discovered.
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Foldable iPhone Could Be Delayed Due to Key Component
Hinge Remains a Key Quality Factor
The foldable iPhone will use foldable OLED panels, hinge modules, cover glass, and other mechanical components from Samsung Display. The company has already received approval for the first delivery of foldable OLED modules from its plant in Vietnam. Preparations extend to module assembly, which includes integrating driver circuits, flexible circuit boards, and protective components.
The hinges are supplied by Hsinchu Hsing from Taiwan and Amphenol from the U.S. They manufacture the 3D-printed hinge modules, which are crucial for opening and closing the display, shaping the fold line, and ensuring the device’s durability. Unlike conventional smartphones, the hinge is a central quality feature of a foldable model.
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Hinge Issues Largely Resolved
However, during development, there were difficulties with the hinges. After endurance tests with millions of movement cycles, slight noises were detected, according to “The Elec.” Additionally, larger manufacturing tolerances in certain assembly steps temporarily led to an increased error rate. According to an industry representative, most of these issues have now been resolved.
Nevertheless, there is ongoing speculation in the industry about a possible delay in the sales launch. While the unveiling is still expected in September, Apple might postpone the actual market launch due to its high-quality standards. At the same time, it is anticipated that the company will adjust its product strategy. Accordingly, the Pro models and the foldable Ultra could be the focus of the September presentation, while the standard model of the upcoming iPhone 18 series might not appear until spring 2027.