Apple's first Foldable iPhone moves toward Mass Production after Hinge Fixes

Apple has resolved most hinge-related issues that slowed development of its first foldable smartphone, according to supply chain reports.

The company now plans to start mass production in late July at Foxconn, clearing the way for a September launch alongside other new iPhone models.

The Elec reported Wednesday that Apple locked in key specifications for the device, including its foldable OLED panel from Samsung Display.

Trial production occurred in April. Engineers addressed almost all the problems that appeared during durability tests.

A Taiwanese industry official told The Elec that the hinge produced minor noise after millions of folding cycles. Some assembly processes also showed higher-than-expected tolerances and defect rates.

"After durability testing involving several million folding cycles, minor noise was detected in the hinge," the official said. "In some assembly processes, manufacturing tolerances were larger than expected, resulting in somewhat higher defect rates."

"Currently, these problems have mostly been resolved," the official added.

Taiwan's Shin Zu Shing and U.S.-based Amphenol supply the 3D-printed hinge modules.

The hinge controls the opening and closing feel, crease visibility, and long-term durability.

Those factors set foldable phones apart from standard models.

Samsung Display completed preparations for its foldable OLED modules at a Vietnam plant and received Apple's approval for initial production volumes. The panels include drive circuits, flexible printed circuit boards, and protective components.

The device features a book-style design.

Reports point to a roughly 7.8-inch inner screen and a 5.5-inch outer display.

It uses titanium elements and aims for minimal crease. Earlier leaks mentioned a possible liquid metal hinge component for better performance.

Industry sources said the hinge emerged as the main technical hurdle.

Earlier reports from May raised concerns about production stabilization and quality control.

Some observers expected possible delays into August or beyond. Apple held to its timeline despite those challenges.

Foxconn will handle initial mass production. The schedule supports a September announcement.

Apple may adjust its broader iPhone launch plans because of the new model.

One supply chain contact told The Elec that this year’s event will center on Pro, Pro Max, and the foldable version, with the standard model possibly shifting to spring 2027.

The foldable iPhone enters a market where Samsung, Google, and others already sell competing devices.

Apple has spent years developing the product to meet its standards for build quality and user experience.

Supply chain sources indicate the company pushed through final validation stages without major setbacks to the fall window.

Pricing remains unclear, though past estimates put it well above $2,000.

Apple has not commented publicly on the device or the production update. The company typically reveals new iPhones in September events.

Mass production will determine final availability for the holiday season. Suppliers continue to ramp up components as Apple prepares the device for market.