iPhone Fold: Test production started at Foxconn Apfelpatient

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The iPhone Fold has reached an important milestone on its way to market launch: Test production has begun at Apple's most important manufacturing partner, Foxconn.

For years, there has been speculation about Apple's first foldable iPhone. Now, the picture is becoming clearer: According to Weibo-based leaker Instant Digital, the iPhone Fold has entered test production at Foxconn. This step is a clear signal that Apple is on track and approaching mass production. For a complete overview of all previous leaks, we have a summary of all the rumors and facts about the iPhone Fold.

Foxconn is Apple's most important partner for iPhone manufacturing. When a new model enters test production there, it means that the development phase is largely complete and Apple is validating the manufacturing processes under real-world production conditions. With a completely new form factor like the iPhone Fold, this step is particularly significant – it shows that the technical challenges surrounding the hinge, flexible display, and unusual casing design have apparently been resolved.

Timeline: September or December?

The news of the production start comes at a time when the discussion about the iPhone Fold's market launch is still ongoing. Barclays analyst Tim Long recently reported that the device might not be available until December – significantly after the iPhone 18 Pro, which is expected in September.

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman at least partially confirmed this assessment. He expects the iPhone Fold to be released "undoubtedly somewhat later than the Pro models," and referred to Apple's experience with the iPhone X, which also launched a few weeks after the other models in 2017.

However, today's leak suggests that Apple is still internally aiming for a simultaneous launch with the iPhone 18 Pro. Instant Digital quotes a previous statement indicating that both devices would be unveiled together. The fact that test production has already begun – roughly five months before the expected September event – suggests that Apple's timeline is proceeding as planned.

What is known about the iPhone Fold

The iPhone Fold is expected to have a book-style design and, when unfolded, offer a 7.8-inch inner display. When folded, it will have a 5.5-inch outer screen. Apple is using a titanium casing with a hinge made of titanium, stainless steel, and liquid metal, which should allow for a virtually invisible display crease.

Instead of Face ID, Touch ID is used in the side button, and the front camera is implemented as a punch-hole solution without a dynamic island – both firsts for the iPhone series. The left side of the casing is said to be completely button-free, as that's where the hinge is located.

The iPhone Fold is expected to be priced in the upper premium segment. Analysts predict a price between $2,000 and $2,500. The start of production at Foxconn confirms that Apple is sticking to these plans and that the most ambitious iPhone in years has taken a decisive step closer to its expected market launch in fall 2026. (Image: FrontPageTech x Asherdipps)