Samsung’s Biggest Foldable Challenger May Not Arrive Until 2027
Apple fans are eagerly waiting for the company’s first foldable iPhone. However, a fresh report suggests that the launch may be delayed until 2027. The reason is that the Cupertino giant will need more time to finalize the design and key components, especially the hinge. This also means less competition for Samsung for another year.
Apple may struggle to launch its foldable iPhone next year
Apple’s foldable iPhone has long been rumored to debut in the second half of 2026. It looks like this won’t be possible. According to a report from Japan’s Mizuho Securities (via TheElec), Apple may find it difficult to begin mass production of its foldable iPhone in 2026. This means the company won’t release the device alongside the upcoming iPhone 18 series, expected in September 2026.
Meanwhile, Mizuho Securities has lowered the production forecast of foldable iPhone panels. It decreased volume from 13 million to 11 million, and now to 9 million units. The firm further predicted that if Apple succeeds in releasing the foldable iPhone in 2026, the production of phones will remain in the range of 5 to 7 million units.
This is lower than Apple’s target of 10 to 15 million units. The limited production could be because of the device’s steep price, reportedly over $2,000 (about 2.8 million won). For comparison, Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z Fold 7 is available at around 2.38 million won in South Korea.
Apple’s foldable iPhone may feature a 7.58-inch internal display and a 5.38-inch cover screen. It may adopt advanced display technologies such as Color Filter on Encap (CoE) and LTPO thin-film transistor (TFT). Samsung Display may supply custom-made crease-free display panels for the device. This suggests that Apple’s offering could address the common issue of visible creases in foldable screens.
If you can’t wait for the iPhone Fold and want to experience the advanced form factor in the smartphone world, the most compelling option right now is the Galaxy Z Fold 7. As of now, you can buy the 512GB model for the price of the 256GB option as part of a double storage promotional offer.