TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that Apple Inc. (AAPL.US) has finalized key decisions for its inaugural foldable iPhone, scheduling mass production for the second half of 2026. The tech giant has abandoned in-house foldable display development, opting instead for Samsung Display’s crease-free solution. This technology minimizes visible folding marks through optimized hinge and screen architecture, enhancing overall durability.

Manufacturing partner Foxconn will initiate trial production by late Q3 or early Q4 2025 (approximately September-October), paving the way for full-scale mass production in H2 2026. Initial shipments will meet market demand throughout 2026.

Samsung Display holds exclusive supplier status for the foldable OLED panels, with annual capacity secured at 7-8 million units. The device will feature a 7.8-inch main display when unfolded paired with a 5.5-inch external screen, incorporating under-display camera technology. Fine M-Tec provides the titanium-stainless steel composite hinge, balancing lightweight construction with structural resilience.

Priced between $2,000 and $2,500, Apple’s debut foldable iPhone targets the premium segment and will launch alongside the iPhone 18 series in fall 2026. The company has projected initial orders of 15-20 million units to cover anticipated demand over the subsequent 2-3 years.