Apple's First Foldable Phone Delayed Past Sept Launch of iPhone 18 Pro
Recent reports indicate that the long-rumored foldable iPhone will not launch in its expected September timeframe alongside or before the anticipated release of the new flagship, likely arriving instead after a hypothetical late-2026 timeline.
Key Points
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1Apple's first foldable iPhone is expected to launch later than previously anticipated due to production challenges.
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2Reports suggest the device will ship after or alongside (but not necessarily before) the September release of the iPhone 18 Pro and Max in late fall/early winter, rather than simultaneously with it. The specific timing remains uncertain but likely extends beyond early October into November or December for some sources to push back further.
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3Mark Gurman from Bloomberg is a primary source citing these delays attributed to manufacturing hurdles affecting Apple's supply chain.
Developments
Apple's foldable "iPhone Fold" is expected to launch between October and December 2026 instead of September due to complex manufacturing constraints for its display technology, which also necessitates a slower production pace. The device will feature an A20 Pro chip with Touch ID rather than Face Ids priced around $195 million making it the most expensive iPhone ever sold by Apple
Apple is expected to unveil its 2026 foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 Pro in September, but production challenges related to complex display manufacturing may delay shipments by weeks or months compared to other models. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman attributes this potential lag not only to durability and crease-less screen requirements but also notes that Apple has historically delayed new technologies until they meet its strict quality standards before launch.
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports the rumored foldable iPhone may not ship with other premium devices this fall, potentially launching later than expected instead of alongside an early 2027 release for a standard model. Consequently, buyers might have to wait several weeks beyond September before Apple introduces its first folding smartphone in late October or November.