Apple to Mass-Produce Foldable iPhone in India by 2026 | Everything We Know So Far
New Delhi, September 18, 2025 – Apple is moving closer to entering the foldable smartphone market, with reports confirming that the company has begun testing a foldable iPhone prototype in Taiwan. Once the pilot production phase is complete, mass manufacturing of the device is expected to take place in India, positioning the country as a critical hub for Apple’s next big innovation.
According to a report from Nikkei Asia, Apple has set up a pilot line in Taiwan to refine the engineering and production processes required for a foldable device. The testing will help resolve challenges around durability, hinge reliability, and display crease reduction before moving to large-scale production.
Mass Production Target: 2026
Industry sources suggest that Apple aims to begin mass production of the foldable iPhone in India by late 2025, with a commercial launch planned for 2026. The foldable model is expected to contribute to Apple’s ambitious target of producing nearly 95 million iPhones in 2026, marking a more than 10% increase over this year’s estimated output.
Why India?
Apple has steadily expanded its manufacturing base in India, with major suppliers like Foxconn and Pegatron already producing flagship iPhones in the country. The decision to move mass production of the foldable iPhone to India reflects both Apple’s supply-chain diversification strategy and India’s growing role in global electronics manufacturing.
India offers cost advantages, government incentives under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, and an emerging ecosystem of skilled labor and suppliers. The move is also in line with Apple’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on China, where geopolitical tensions and trade restrictions have posed challenges.
What to Expect from the Foldable iPhone
While Apple has not revealed official details, industry leaks suggest the foldable iPhone will feature:
- A flexible OLED display, supplied by Samsung Display.
- A redesigned hinge aimed at minimizing the visible crease.
- Ultra-thin glass for improved durability.
- Potential changes in biometric authentication, with some reports hinting at Touch ID instead of Face ID.
The foldable iPhone is expected to debut as a premium product, competing directly with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold and other foldable flagships.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the excitement, Apple faces multiple hurdles. Foldable displays are notoriously difficult to produce at scale, and ensuring quality and reliability will be critical for Apple’s reputation. Supply chain readiness in India, particularly for advanced components like flexible displays and precision hinges, will also be a major factor.
Boost for India’s Tech Ambitions
If successful, the project could bring significant benefits to India. Mass production of a high-end, complex product like a foldable iPhone would create new jobs, enhance local manufacturing expertise, and strengthen India’s position as a global electronics hub.
Industry Impact
Apple’s entry into the foldable market could reshape the smartphone industry. Competitors will likely face renewed pressure to innovate, while suppliers of foldable displays, ultra-thin glass, and hinge components may see a surge in demand.
? FAQ: Apple Foldable iPhone
Q1. When will the foldable iPhone launch?
Apple is expected to launch its first foldable iPhone in 2026, with mass production starting in India by late 2025.
Q2. Will the foldable iPhone be made entirely in India?
Pilot testing is happening in Taiwan, but mass production is planned for India. Some key components like displays and hinges may still be imported initially.
Q3. What features can we expect?
Rumors suggest a flexible OLED display, a redesigned hinge with fewer creases, ultra-thin glass, and possibly Touch ID instead of Face ID.
Q4. How much will it cost?
No official pricing yet, but analysts expect it to be more expensive than the iPhone Pro series, likely above ?1.5 lakh ($1,800+) at launch.
Q5. Who are Apple’s key partners for production?
Foxconn and Pegatron are expected to handle assembly in India, while Samsung Display may supply the foldable panels.
