Apple is not giving up on the vision of a foldable device, and is currently in the midst of its most advanced development phase yet, with a first prototype ready for testing. After no less than seven years of recurring rumors about the launch of a foldable iPhone, it now appears the company is indeed making clear strides toward a finished product, aiming for a 2026 release. According to reports in the United States, the foldable iPhone is currently undergoing initial prototype testing, which began this past June. This phase is expected to last about two months, after which the device will go through additional testing rounds, leading up to the completion of the prototype by the end of the year.
According to the published information, Apple is preparing to complete its series of engineering tests, with the goal of ensuring that all hardware and software components function optimally. From there, the device will move to design testing, followed by the manufacturing testing phase, during which the company evaluates its ability to mass-produce the device. If all development phases are successful, the foldable iPhone will enter mass production by summer 2026, alongside the expected iPhone 18 series.
The new information aligns with previous reports published in recent years, but this time it’s clear that Apple is making real progress and not just drafting plans on paper. Over the years, the company has conducted extensive research, including the filing of patents for complex hinge mechanisms, aiming to achieve the smoothest fold possible without visible crease marks in the center of the screen. As early as 2022, it was reported that Apple had begun working with Samsung, which was the first to unveil a foldable phone in 2019, in order to develop durable displays without a visible fold. Now, according to estimates, Samsung will supply the displays for Apple’s new prototypes and will help ensure that the screens meet the company’s stringent standards.
Despite all the progress, it's important to remember that since 2018, there have been repeated reports claiming the foldable iPhone is “just around the corner,” but the launch has been delayed for various reasons, including hardware challenges, manufacturing difficulties, and strategic considerations. For example, it was previously reported that the company had at least two different prototypes, and even considered canceling the project entirely. This time, according to the report, it seems Apple is more committed than ever to bringing the foldable device to market.
Another detail revealed is that Apple has decided to pause, for now, the development of a foldable iPad, which had also been on the table. According to estimates, Apple wants to concentrate its technological efforts on the foldable iPhone, which is considered the company’s primary growth engine, especially in light of the slowdown in the global smartphone market in recent years.
Apple understands that a successful launch of a foldable iPhone could once again set it apart from its competitors, who already offer several foldable devices — including Samsung, Huawei, and Oppo. According to sources, Apple aims to deliver a unique foldable product that distinguishes itself from the existing category, with a seamless user experience, high durability, and software specially optimized for flexible displays.
At this stage, according to estimates, the company will conduct at least two more prototype rounds by fall 2025. If all goes as planned, it will begin comprehensive testing with cellular carriers around the world by the end of that year. Apple typically tests its devices with carriers to ensure full compatibility with fifth-generation (5G) networks, which are expected to form the primary connectivity infrastructure of the new model.
Although there is still no official launch date, Apple is aiming for a release alongside the iPhone 18 series in fall 2026, during the company’s annual launch event — if the rumors don’t fade once again.