Apple's Foldable iPhone Closer to Reality as Display Production Reportedly Kicks Off

Apple's foldable dreams have been in the pipeline for a little too long at this point. However, from the looks of it, Apple might be moving closer to unveiling its first-ever foldable very soon.

According to Korean news outlet ETNews, production of flexible OLED displays for the foldable iPhone has now begun, setting the stage for an official launch expected sometime in 2026. 

While Apple has kept details under wraps, industry insiders have reportedly suggested that the company has partnered with display suppliers in South Korea and China to manufacture the panels.

According to the publication's industry sources, Samsung Display is setting up an exclusive foldable panel production line for Apple at its A3 factory in Asan, Chungcheongnam, South Korea. Once operational, the line is expected to produce around 35,000 of sixth-generation glass sheets per month. 

Now, these sheets are based on a 7-inch foldable OLED which translates to an annual capacity of 15 million panels or a monthly capacity of 1.25 million panels. 

Despite the high production capacity, the latest report suggests a more conservative rollout in the first year. An estimated production of around six to eight million foldable iPhones is expected in 2026. 

While the company has yet to confirm any details, the latest report suggests that Apple's long-rumoured foldable project has advanced well beyond the prototype stage. So, it could very well launch alongside the Apple iPhone 18 series next year. 

Expect to see more concrete leaks and announcements surface in the coming months as Apple moves closer to what could be its most significant launch in years.