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iPhone Fold launch: Why Apple’s first foldable could ship later than the iPhone 18 series
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone Fold in September, but shipping could be pushed into late 2026
- PUBLISHED: Mon 30 Mar 2026, 11:29 AM
Apple is finally expected to enter the foldable smartphone race this year, with its long-rumoured iPhone Fold tipped for a fall 2026 debut. But while the unveiling may happen alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, the actual release could arrive later than expected.
According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, there is “no doubt” that Apple’s first foldable iPhone will ship after its Pro counterparts.
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Speaking during a recent Q&A, Gurman pointed out that foldable smartphones are among the most difficult devices to manufacture, largely due to their advanced display technology.
“This is some of the most complex display tech on the market,” he explained, adding that Apple typically staggers launches when introducing a completely new form factor.
When iPhone X launched, it was unveiled alongside other models but shipped later, a pattern that now appears likely for the iPhone Fold.
Current expectations suggest Apple will unveil the iPhone Fold in September 2026, during its traditional iPhone launch event. However, the shipping timeline is where things get less certain.
Recent analyst reports have hinted at a potential delay stretching into December, though Gurman’s comments suggest the gap may not be quite that long.
The iPhone Fold represents Apple’s biggest iPhone redesign in years. Unlike iterative upgrades, foldables introduce entirely new user experiences, from multitasking on larger screens to hybrid phone-tablet functionality. Any delay, therefore, is less about setbacks and more about ensuring the product meets Apple’s high standards.
