Foldable iPhone and iPad Not Expected to Enter Production Until 2026

Apple isn’t expected to begin production of its two reported foldable devices until next year. Analyst Jeff Pu believes that the foldable iPhone and iPad will enter the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase at Foxconn in 2026.

Apple has long been rumoured to be developing foldable devices, with the focal point being a foldable iPhone. In a recent research note from GF Securities, first reported on by MacRumors, Pu suggests when the devices may enter production. According to Pu, mass production of a foldable iPhone and iPad may begin within the second half of 2026.

Furthermore, Apple is expected to begin a prototyping stage for the foldable in April of this year. If the timing is correct, Apple may have a sizeable runway to finalize the design and scale of these devices prior to entering production by way of supplier Foxconn.

Unfortunately, Pu wasn’t able to give any specifics about the two foldable devices. However, given the long history of reports pointing to a foldable iPhone and iPad, it’s likely these are the culprits.

The foldable iPhone is expected to feature a 7.8-inch display with a book-like folding crease. It’s also suggested to be 9 to 9.5mm thick when folded and between 4.5 and 4.8mm when unfolded. Recently, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claimed that the device could retail for more than $2,000 US (about $2,862 CAD).

The foldable iPad has also been reported on in the past. It’s been suggested that the device may support a 19-inch display. Earlier reports indicated that a launch of the device before 2027 was unlikely.

As part of the latest report from Pu, it’s believed that Apple’s iPhone shipments in 2025 may be lukewarm due to the trepidatious rollout of personalized features for Siri being delayed until “the coming year.” However, the production of the new foldable is said to be a potential boon for Foxconn’s business in 2026.