Apple’s long-awaited foldable iPhone is progressing into its prototyping phase, with expectations for a launch in 2026. Reports indicate that Apple began the initial Prototype 1 (P1) phase in June, working closely with suppliers. The goal is to complete prototype testing by the end of 2025, after which the device will enter the Engineering Verification Test (EVT) stage. The prototyping process involves several stages: P1, P2, and P3, each lasting approximately two months.
During these phases, Apple’s supply chain partners will conduct limited trial runs before transferring assembly responsibilities to primary manufacturers, such as Foxconn and Pegatron. These assemblers will further validate production yields and ensure manufacturability. This timeline aligns with the developmental schedules of other Apple products, as the P1 to P3 stages typically occur a year before the start of EVT, Design Verification Test (DVT), and Mass Production (MP). Interestingly, while work on the foldable iPhone is advancing, Apple has reportedly paused its foldable iPad project.
This decision stems from challenges related to manufacturing, increased costs associated with specific display technology, and a lack of consumer interest in larger foldable devices. Consequently, the foldable iPhone is anticipated to make its debut alongside the iPhone 18 lineup in the fall of 2026. As for Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 series, slated for release in September, numerous rumors have surfaced about expected features. Notably, there may be a repositioning of the Apple logo, as well as differences in display sizes between the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models.
Meanwhile, analysts predict that Apple will continue to dominate the true wireless stereo earbud market through 2025, as the company expands its offerings and features in the tech landscape.
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