Exciting news for Apple fans as the long-rumored “iPhone Fold” appears to be becoming a reality. Reports suggest that Apple’s first foldable device has entered its final engineering and pre-production phase.
According to the Economic Daily News, the design of the device has been finalized, signaling that Apple is moving closer to a potential late 2026 release. Supply chain sources indicate that Apple has completed the experimental phase and is now fine-tuning the finishing touches.
Apple has reportedly been working on this project for over five years, with trial production now underway and suppliers preparing for the expected high demand by stockpiling parts.
Analysts predict that Apple could ship 7 to 9 million units in the first year alone, potentially capturing a significant portion of the foldable market share currently dominated by Samsung, Huawei, and Motorola.
Why It Matters – and What to Expect Next
The introduction of an Apple foldable device could bring much-needed innovation to the smartphone market.
Rumors suggest that Apple has managed to create a seamless screen without the visible crease seen in current foldable phones, potentially addressing a major issue with this technology.
The device is expected to share design elements with the iPhone 17 Pro, including premium materials and advanced cooling technology.

Key suppliers such as Samsung (for screens) and TSMC (for chips) are involved in the production process, along with other partners like Shin Zu Shing (for hinges) and Chi Hong (for cooling solutions).
This development marks a significant shift in iPhone design and innovation, potentially setting a new standard in the industry similar to the impact of the iPhone X.
What’s next?
If the ongoing trials progress smoothly, mass production is expected to commence in 2025, leading to a potential launch in late 2026. As production ramps up, leaks and details about the device are likely to surface as suppliers gear up for the release.