**Foldable iPhone May Be Delayed Until 2027 Due to Hinge Design Challenges**
The launch of Apple’s first foldable iPhone might be pushed back to 2027, owing to setbacks in the design of a crucial component. Until now, most reports suggested that Apple would unveil its much-anticipated foldable iPhone as early as next September, debuting alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the iPhone Air. The base iPhone 18 model was expected in the following spring, along with a more affordable iPhone 18e.
However, new speculation indicates that the device, likely to be named the iPhone Fold, could face a significant delay—potentially not arriving until 2027. This update comes from Japanese securities firm Mizuho Securities.
### Hinge Production Delays Could Push iPhone Fold Release to 2027
According to South Korean website The Elec, Mizuho informed its clients that Apple has yet to finalize both the design and specifications for its first foldable iPhone. There are lingering questions about several components, the most notable being the hinge—a critical part for foldable devices.
Apple reportedly planned to use a unique hinge designed to minimize, or even eliminate, the crease that plagues current foldable phones. Just recently, respected analyst Ming-Chi Kuo noted that the hinge for Apple’s foldable iPhone may end up costing $20 to $40 less than previously expected. Currently, the price per hinge is estimated at $100 to $120, but Kuo predicts this could drop to $70 or $80 by the time mass production begins.
Mizuho’s note, translated by AppleInsider, stated: “It is not easy to mass-produce a foldable phone in the third quarter of 2026 and release it in September. It takes time to decide the final design and specification of Apple’s hinge.” This could be reason enough for Apple to delay the iPhone Fold’s release until 2027.
### Anticipated Specs and Launch Numbers
Mizuho Securities forecasts that the iPhone Fold will feature a 7.58-inch internal screen and a 5.38-inch cover display. Previous reports had predicted a slightly larger 5.49-inch external screen and a 7.76-inch internal screen. For comparison, the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 will have an 8-inch internal display and a 6.5-inch external screen.
If Apple does manage a 2026 launch, Mizuho believes that the company would produce five to seven million fewer iPhone Folds than originally planned. The anticipated number of display panels has been revised downward from 13 million to 9 million units.
### Is There Demand for a Foldable iPhone?
A poll taken about the device revealed a divided audience:
– **Yes, I can’t wait for the iPhone Fold.**
– **No, I don’t like foldable phones.**
– **I would love a foldable phone, but not a foldable iPhone.**
### Foldables Remain a Niche Market
Foldable phones currently account for roughly 1.5% to 1.6% of the global smartphone market in 2025, with total shipments forecast to reach nearly 20 million units this year. The largest manufacturer in this segment is Huawei, holding 45% of the foldable market as of the second quarter of 2025.
Motorola’s Razr line has also surged, doubling its global foldable market share to 28% and securing second place. Samsung, meanwhile, holds 9% of the worldwide foldable market. Notably, in the U.S., Motorola and Samsung are the top two foldable phone brands.
### Touch ID May Return with the iPhone Fold
One fan-favorite feature rumored to return with the iPhone Fold is Touch ID. First introduced with the iPhone 5s in 2013 and replaced by Face ID starting with the iPhone X, the fingerprint sensor could be making a comeback with Apple’s first foldable device.
### The Foldable Future
While the foldable smartphone market remains a niche, many analysts predict a surge in popularity if and when Apple enters the space. Until then, enthusiasts and casual users alike will have to wait a bit longer for Apple’s innovative take on the foldable device.
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https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-could-delay-iphone-fold_id174981
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