Update April 7, 2026, at 2:37 p.m. ET: Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman contradicts Nikkei’s report about the iPhone Fold delay, saying it’s “off base.” Gurman claims that development is progressing and that the device is set to launch in September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series. However, Gurman also acknowledges that the “timing isn’t final” and things could still change.
The original story continues below.
While many, including myself, wait eagerly for the foldable iPhone, the latest news indicates we may have to wait even longer.
According to a report from Nikkei Asia, Apple has had engineering problems during the early testing phase of the folding iPhone. These issues are apparently more complex and take longer to resolve than Apple expected. This delay could cause the phone to launch in 2027.
Apple has the device undergoing engineering verification, but component suppliers have been notified that production schedules may need to be pushed, which suggests that Apple is adjusting its timeline.
Some rumours suggested that Apple was planning a staggered release, launching the foldable iPhone with the iPhone 18 Pro/Pro Max around September, with the regular iPhone 18 coming later. However, the reported engineering issues could definitely change this.
“It’s true that more issues than expected have emerged during the early test production phase, and additional time will be needed to resolve them and make necessary adjustments,” a source familiar with the matter told Nikkei Asia. “The current situation could put the mass production timeline at risk.” Further, the source mentioned how important the testing will be this month and next. “April will mark a crucial stage of the engineering verification test, and this month till early May is extremely critical.”
The leak also indicates that the device is being delayed because of negotiations with manufacturing partners. Apple is reportedly looking to use liquid metal for the hinge, which can help with durability and reduce creasing and a 3D-printed titanium alloy, with Apple looking to make the final decision during the Production Validation phase in July or early August.
I’m definitely looking forward to this device and hope it does launch this year, instead of getting pushed to 2027.
Source: Nikkei Asia, Via: MacRumors
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