Apple's First Foldable iPhone Faces Engineering Delays, Risking Production Timeline: Nikkei Asia
Apple is facing engineering setbacks during the test production phase of its first foldable iPhone, which could delay mass production and shipments by months, according to sources familiar with the matter cited by Nikkei Asia.
Issues have proven more complex than expected during engineering verification tests, with some suppliers notified of possible schedule shifts.
The April–early May period is seen as critical for resolving design and manufacturing challenges. Apple has planned initial production of about 7–8 million units, less than 10% of its new iPhone lineup volume, as part of its 2026 launch strategy that prioritizes premium models.
The foldable device is undergoing Apple’s standard multi-stage production process, but unresolved engineering issues—not component shortages—are said to be the main constraint.
