Apple’s long rumoured foldable iPhone may not arrive as smoothly as many fans expect, with fresh reporting pointing to production challenges behind the scenes. While the device is still believed to be on Apple’s roadmap, the latest signals suggest the launch could come with tight supply and early shortages.
The warning comes from Ming-Chi Kuo, a well regarded analyst at TFI Securities, who has a strong track record when it comes to Apple’s supply chain. In a recent research note, Kuo said development of the foldable iPhone is running later than earlier expectations, even though Apple is still targeting an announcement in the second half of 2026.
However, the bigger concern lies beyond the unveiling. According to Kuo, early manufacturing yields and the pace of production remain challenging. As a result, shipments may not scale smoothly until sometime in 2027. If demand proves as strong as expected, shortages could persist through much of late 2026.
A rare challenge for Apple
Supply constraints of this scale would be unusual for Apple. In recent years, the company has largely avoided major launch disruptions. There have been brief delays before, such as the iPhone X in 2017, which reached stores weeks after other models. The last serious example of prolonged supply trouble dates back to 2016, when the original AirPods were hard to find for months.
That history matters because Apple is known for refining production quickly. Early issues do not always translate into long term problems. The iPhone Air, for example, faced rumours of manufacturing difficulties in early 2025 but was widely available by its September release.
Timing still offers room to adjust
Looking at the calendar, there is still time for Apple to course correct. The next flagship iPhone lineup is expected in fall 2026, while a separate model, widely referred to as the iPhone 17e, is likely to arrive earlier in the spring. That leaves several months for Apple and its suppliers to improve yields and stabilise production.
Why demand could surge
Foldable phones have so far remained a niche category, with modest sales compared to traditional smartphones. Apple’s entry, however, could change that dynamic. The company’s brand power and loyal user base may push folding phones into the mainstream, lifting interest across the entire market and helping rival manufacturers as well.
For now, the foldable iPhone appears to be a question of when, not if. The bigger uncertainty is how easy it will be to buy one when it finally arrives.
