Apple is Reportedly Delaying the Foldable iPhone Launch to the First Quarter in 2027

Initially, a foldable iPhone was speculated to make its debut in 2026. However, recent updates from Korean publication AlphaBiz suggest a slight pushback, with the launch now expected in the first quarter of 2027.

Apple Foldable iPhone Delayed to 2027

The delay in the foldable iPhone’s launch to early 2027, according to an official familiar with Apple’s internal plans, is due to supply and demand concerns. “I understand that Apple plans to start selling foldable iPhone at a slightly later time than expected after making full preparations for all matters, including the supply and demand of foldable displays,” the official stated.

This new timeline marks a shift from the previously anticipated fourth quarter of 2026 release. Despite the postponement, the process of selecting suppliers for components like foldable displays is reportedly moving forward as initially planned.

Apple’s entry into the foldable phone market is expected to come with a device that is thinner and lighter than its competitors, focusing on minimizing crease marks on the folding screen. The company is also exploring technology that reduces wrinkles and creases along the fold.

Apple Foldable iPad, 20-inch MacBook

In addition to the foldable iPhone, Apple is believed to be working on a foldable iPad and a 20.3-inch MacBook, which could mark the company’s first foldable product. Ming-Chi Kuo, an Apple analyst, suggested that this foldable MacBook might go into mass production in 2027.

This development comes as Apple’s competitors, such as Samsung and Google, have already released multiple generations of foldable devices, with Samsung having five generations of clamshell and book-style foldable phones and Google launching the Pixel Fold.

The landscape of Apple’s foldable device development is rife with shifting reports and contradictions, adding to the speculation surrounding the company’s plans. Notably, a tipster on the Chinese social media site Weibo claimed last month that Apple had paused development on its foldable iPhone due to issues with the folding display.