Foxconn is currently running trial production of Apple’s foldable-screen iPhone, and its price may break 20,000 yuan.

（Source: OLEDindustry）

Foxconn has started pilot production.

On April 6, industry chain insiders said that Foxconn has begun pilot production of Apple’s foldable-screen iPhone.

The supply chain’s shipment target guidance is the second half of 2026; the first product is a large-fold model iPhone.

This isn’t hearsay—it’s a message confirmed by the supply chain.

To be released in September: the most expensive iPhone in history

The iPhone Fold release time is already confirmed. This September, it will debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series.

As for pricing, the starting price for the mainland China model is expected to be 14k–15k yuan, and the top configuration may break 20k yuan. At present, Apple’s most expensive iPhone on sale is the top configuration of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, priced at 17,999 yuan. Once the foldable screen model arrives, it will immediately reset the price ceiling.

Guo Mingchi predicts a price of $2,000–$2,500, Gurman expects about $2,000, and Fubon Research’s clear price target is $2,399.

This phone will be the most significant iPhone redesign since the iPhone X in 2017.

How Apple plans to solve the crease problem

Apple has invested heavily in R&D for this model, integrating the Apple Vision Pro display technology team with the iPhone hardware team, focusing on industry pain points such as creases and hinge durability.

The goal is to achieve “a crease-free visual experience” and a fold life of 300k times or more.

The device uses a horizontally book-style foldable design similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series. The inner screen is about 7.7 inches, and the outer screen is about 5.3 inches. The iOS 27 system will be optimized for the foldable form factor in depth, supporting multitasking similar to iPad—including split-screen app display and floating windows.

Another change worth paying attention to: Guo Mingchi predicts that the first foldable-screen iPhone will do away with Face ID and switch to a side-integrated Touch ID fingerprint unlock. The reason is that the Face ID security module is relatively thick; with limited internal space inside the foldable screen, it’s difficult to fit.

The supply chain has started mass production ramp-up

Apple’s suppliers are moving fast.

Some suppliers responsible for steps such as UTG glass, PET film, glass brackets, 3D glass cover plates, and more say the new project has a high value amount, with them already leading in share. Currently, progress on the foldable screen is going smoothly; it’s expected to be released in the second half of the year, and it is ramping up mass production delivery as planned.

Major breakthroughs have also been made in high-end VC heat dissipation projects.

One PCB supplier also mentioned that, based on the requirements of the new products, theoretically higher standards will be set for the number of part numbers and the manufacturing processes for some part numbers.

Apple enters the scene—new variables emerge for the foldable screen market

In 2025, the shipment volume of foldable-screen smartphones in China is about 10.01 million units, up 9.2% year over year. The increase isn’t particularly dramatic— the market is waiting for a variable.

Apple is that variable.

Counterpoint predicts that Apple will achieve a 28% share of the foldable screen market in 2026, approaching Samsung’s leading position. This shift will significantly reshape the global competitive landscape.

Donghai Securities said that supported by factors including Apple’s entry, the premiumization of smartphones, and increased OEM participation, global foldable-screen smartphone shipments in 2026 are expected to grow 20%.

After enduring the foldable screen for so many years, it finally has Apple’s variable to wait for.

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