Apple has pushed back the launch of its first foldable iPhone to early next year. The device was originally expected to arrive in stores during early 2027 but now faces a later release date. This shift follows engineering hurdles related to the phone's hinge and display assembly.
Engineering hurdles push release from 2027 while pricing details emerge
The upcoming handset, rumored as the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra, relies on panels from Samsung Display. Apple requires a crease-less design that meets strict quality control standards for the folding mechanism. Previous hinge prototypes reportedly failed these rigorous internal testing benchmarks before being rejected.
- Display Supplier: Samsung Display
- Hinge/Crease Requirement: Crease-less design required; hinge failed quality control standards previously
- Launch Window: Early next year (postponed from early 2027)
- Starting Price: $2,000
- High-End Variant Price: $2,200
Supply chain reports indicate the device will launch with a starting price of $2,000. A higher-performance variant is also expected to cost approximately $2,200. These figures come from an Asian publication citing supply chain partners and remain unconfirmed by Apple.
Adam Lin, CEO of Largan Precision, attributed the timeline change to scheduling factors in component manufacturing. He noted that delays may result in the device arriving early next year rather than waiting for 2027. The company continues to work on enabling a creaseless folding display without visible marks.
Source: TweakTown
