Apple’s First Foldable iPhone Reportedly Moved into Trial Production

Apple’s foldable iPhone has just surfaced in a fresh rumor once again, and this time, the chatter is about its manufacturing. According to a recent Chinese report, Zhongzheng Jinniuzuo and unnamed supply chain sources claim that Foxconn has apparently began early stage production.

Apple shares jumped more than 2% in morning trading.

The report claims that Apple has already given suppliers a shipment target that points to a second-half of 2026 launch window for the device. But this doesn’t mean that the foldable iPhone is ready for mass production just yet. The new foldable device is expected to be a larger book-style foldable rather than a clamshell, putting it closer in concept to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold line.

This is not just a brand-new iPhone line, it seems Apple also has plans for the software, which could be evolving alongside the hardware. ITHome claims that iOS 27 is expected to include foldable-specific optimizations, such as split-screen support, multitasking features, and a UI that feels more like an iPad. As always with leaks, take this with a pinch of salt until Apple says anything official.

Based on prior leaks, Apple’s first foldable iPhone is expected to feature a 7.7-inch folding main display and a 5.3-inch cover panel. But the big highlight is a crease-free main display, similar to the Oppo Find N6. Although, the crease might just be reduced rather than eliminated entirely.

For now, none of this is official. Apple has not announced a foldable iPhone. Regardless, if trial production has begun at Foxconn, that would be one of the more meaningful signs yet that Apple’s foldable ambitions are inching closer to reality.