Apple Foldable iPhone: Samsung Screen, Foxconn Build, 2026 Launch & Tariff Price Hit

I still remember covering the iPhone X launch in 2017 - watching Tim Cook unveil face recognition, sensing a moment where smartphones truly evolved.

Fast forward nearly a decade, and Apple is preparing its next dramatic leap: a folding iPhone - something that could reshape the premium mobile market.

Mass production set for late 2025

Apple’s assembly partner Foxconn is expected to begin production of its foldable iPhone between Q3 and early Q4 2025, according to TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

That timing aligns with rumors pointing to a fall 2026 launch - as part of the iPhone 18 lineup.
Samsung Display to supply foldable screen

While Apple previously explored in-house folding prototypes, it now plans to source its principal panels from Samsung Display.

Samsung is manufacturing around 7–8 million crease-free foldable displays exclusively for this device in 2026.

Apple has placed initial orders totaling 15–20 million units - enough to cover 2–3 years - indicating a cautious rollout.

Key specs and timeline

Spec Rumored Details

Inner screen ~7.8″, crease-free Samsung foldable panel

Outer screen ~5.5″ for phone‑style use

Thickness ~4.5 mm open / ~9.5 mm folded

Hinge material Titanium‑steel alloy, under development

Biometrics Side Touch ID + under‑display camera

Price USD 2,000–2,500, potentially higher due to tariffs

Supply chain: Foxconn takes the lead

Foxconn securing assembly rights reflects Apple’s typical production model - leveraging Hon Hai’s scale and precision.

But the folding assembly introduces new challenges: the precision hinge mechanism remains unfinalized, and integrating Samsung Display’s new panel tech will require tight coordination across facilities

Delays in hinge development or panel yield issues could push back timelines or reduce early output. Foxconn is reportedly building specialised lines to manage this assembly.

Tariff pressures: Cost and final pricing

Pending US–China tariffs on electronics could push prices beyond the USD 2,500 upper limit.

With input costs for foldable panels higher than standard OLED, Apple may absorb some costs - but consumers may still face elevated retail prices, particularly in India and Europe.

That scenario would further limit the foldable iPhone’s market penetration.

How this stacks up to Samsung

Samsung’s Z‑Fold series paved the way, but Apple aims for better screen durability - cinching a crease-free panel, according to Kuo, and tailoring a slimmer 4.5 mm profile open.

However, Apple’s projected shipment of 3–5 million units in year one contrasts with Samsung’s 10–15 million annual foldable shipments, highlighting Apple’s intent to keep this device premium and exclusive at launch.

Market timing and broader context

Globally, foldables are expected to grow around 25% annually.

Apple entering in 2026 gives it more time to perfect hardware and software integration - but potentially cedes early adopter mindshare to Samsung and Chinese competitors.

Tariffs may unevenly impact pricing across markets.

In India, for example, a USD 2,000 device could exceed INR 2.3 lakh at launch - limiting accessibility.

Human insight

In my decade covering Apple, the company rarely innovates this late in a product cycle, but when it does - like with Face ID or M1 silicon - it often changes expectations.

Still, shipping fewer than 5 million units in year one sounds conservative; Apple prefers to ensure quality before scaling.

What to watch next

Hinge & panel finalisation ahead of production ramp

Official launch timing likely September 2026, alongside iPhone 18

Impact of tariffs on U.S. and international pricing

Early reviews of durability & folding performance

Final verdict

Apple’s foldable iPhone could redefine the premium smartphone niche - if the hinge holds up, the screen avoids visible crease, and Apple manages costs under tariff pressure.

With Foxconn lined up and Samsung Display supplying advanced panels, the building blocks are in place. But with a forecasted $2,000–2,500 price and supply chain complexity, this rollout looks intentional - and cautious.

Apple isn’t racing Samsung here - it’s opting for a strategic entry that could shift market dynamics - or risk being too late.

Either way, next fall will tell whether this becomes a “must-have” or merely a collector’s device.