iPhone Fold: Apple delays first foldable smartphone until 2027, along with the standard iPhone 18
While many fans were hoping for the first foldable iPhone to debut as early as 2026, a new report from Korea significantly dampens those expectations. According to this information, Apple is once again delaying the release of its “iPhone Fold” to perfect its design and hinge, potentially pushing it back to 2027.
The iPhone Fold: A Project in Search of Perfection
While it is unclear when exactly Apple began working on a competitor to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold, it is evident that this development has been ongoing for several years. Since the launch of the first Galaxy Fold in 2019 — and particularly the first truly refined model in 2020 — the Cupertino company has approached this venture with caution.
Apple is currently focused on enhancing the durability of the iPhone Fold’s hinge and making the screen fold nearly invisible, two major challenges for any foldable device.
According to information shared by The Elec, these optimizations could still take several months or even over a year, which would push the release of the first foldable iPhone to late 2026 at the earliest, or even into 2027.
The initial production volume is set to be modest, with only between 5 and 7 million units expected in the first year, and an estimated price of over $2,000.
Is the Standard iPhone 18 Also Postponed?
The same report suggests another surprising scenario: Apple may delay the launch of the standard iPhone 18 to spring 2027, while the Pro, Pro Max, and Air versions would release as scheduled in fall 2026.
This would be an unusual timeline for Apple, as non-Pro iPhones — including the iPhone 15, 16, and 17 — have generated excellent sales in their traditional September time slot.
It’s hard to imagine the company shifting this rhythm without a significant strategic reason.
A Risky Yet Understandable Strategy
Apple is being cautious, prioritizing technological maturity over speed to market. The company aims to avoid the pitfalls experienced by early foldable models from Samsung, Huawei, or Motorola.
However, some analysts believe that waiting too long could be counterproductive: the foldable market, which remains niche today, is expected to experience record growth by 2027, led by Samsung, Honor, Oppo, and Google.
Apple Might Opt for a Surprise Move
If Apple decides to keep the launch of the entire iPhone 18 lineup in September 2026, the iPhone Fold could become the highlight event in spring 2027, similar to the first iPhone SE or the Vision Pro.
Alternatively, the company might choose to expedite the project to outpace Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 — a strategy that could reinvigorate the foldable market and strengthen Apple’s position in the ultra-premium segment.
