Apple's long-anticipated entry into the foldable smartphone market, tentatively dubbed the iPhone Fold, is facing significant delays. According to a prominent analyst, while the device may be unveiled next year, widespread availability could be pushed into 2027 due to early-stage manufacturing challenges. This news comes as Apple navigates intense pressure to innovate in both hardware and artificial intelligence.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo Predicts a 2027 Shipment Timeline
In a recent research note and interview, renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo provided a sobering update on the iPhone Fold's development. Kuo asserts that Apple remains on track to officially announce the device in the second half of 2026. However, he cautions that "smooth shipments" of the product are unlikely to materialize until 2027. The delay is attributed to anticipated early-stage yield issues and other manufacturing ramp-up challenges inherent to producing a new form factor at Apple's scale. Consequently, Kuo expects the iPhone Fold to be in short supply through at least the end of 2026, even if initial demand is strong.
Key Analyst Predictions (Ming-Chi Kuo):
- Announcement: On schedule for second half of 2026.
- Smooth Shipments: Delayed until 2027 due to yield and manufacturing challenges.
- Supply: Constrained through end of 2026.
- Strategic Context: Apple is under pressure to showcase AI innovation, with the iPhone Fold being part of an "aggressive innovation" push. The larger screen is seen as beneficial for AI content.
Technical Specifications and Design Philosophy
Based on the latest rumors, the iPhone Fold is shaping up to be a technically ambitious device. It is expected to feature a book-style design with a primary inner display measuring approximately 7.7 inches and a cover screen around 5.4 inches. A key selling point will be its purported crease-less flexible screen, a significant engineering feat. Under the hood, the device is rumored to be powered by a future A20 Pro chipset, include 12GB of RAM, and boast a substantial battery capacity between 5,400 and 5,800mAh. Interestingly, reports suggest it may forgo Face ID in favor of an integrated Touch ID system and could launch as an eSIM-only model.
Reported iPhone Fold Specifications & Details:
- Form Factor: Book-style, crease-less foldable screen.
- Displays: ~7.7-inch main panel, ~5.4-inch cover display.
- Resolution/Aspect Ratio: 2,713 x 1,920 (4:3).
- Biometrics: Touch ID (replacing Face ID).
- Chipset: A20 Pro SoC with 12GB RAM.
- Connectivity: In-house C2 5G modem, eSIM-only variant expected.
- Cameras: 48MP rear dual-camera, up to 24MP in-display front camera.
- Battery: 5,400-5,800mAh capacity.
- Launch & Price: H2 2026 announcement, projected price ~USD 2,399.
- First-Year Shipments: Estimated between 7-9 million units.
The Broader Context: AI Pressure and Product Strategy
Kuo's analysis places the iPhone Fold's challenges within a wider strategic context for Apple. He notes that the company feels substantial pressure from rapid AI innovations across the tech industry. In response, Apple is reportedly pursuing "aggressive innovation" in its iPhone lineup. The foldable form factor is seen as a major part of this push, with its larger screen being advantageous for displaying AI-generated multimodal content. In the interim, Apple is leaning on partnerships, such as its deal with Google to use a customized Gemini model for "Apple Intelligence," while concurrently developing its own in-house AI solutions and server chips for a more integrated future.
Market Impact and Competitive Landscape
The potential delay of the iPhone Fold has implications for the broader foldable market. Its arrival is widely expected to catalyze mainstream adoption of foldable devices. A postponement could temporarily slow this momentum. Meanwhile, Apple is also reportedly developing AI-enabled smart glasses for a potential 2026 release, indicating a multi-pronged approach to next-generation personal technology that will see it competing with companies like Meta in new product categories. The success of these ventures will depend heavily on Apple's ability to overcome its current production bottlenecks and deliver polished, user-ready experiences.