Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone Ultra appears to remain on schedule for a September unveiling, as new supply chain reports indicate that earlier concerns surrounding the device’s hinge mechanism have largely been resolved. The company has reportedly completed key development milestones and moved the foldable iPhone into the test production stage ahead of mass production later this summer.
According to reports from Apple’s supply chain, the company recently finalized major specifications for the foldable iPhone, including its display, chassis, hinge system, and other mechanical components. Foxconn is expected to handle initial production, while mass production is currently scheduled to begin at the end of July.
Foldable iPhone Enters Production
The hinge has remained one of the most critical components throughout development because it directly affects durability, crease visibility, and the overall folding experience. Apple reportedly faced challenges during testing after running millions of durability cycles on the mechanism.
“After several million durability tests, some noise was generated from the hinge. In some assembly processes, tolerances were larger than expected, resulting in a somewhat higher defect rate. Currently, most of these issues have been resolved.”
Taiwan supply chain industry insider
The report suggests that Apple has now addressed most of these concerns, allowing the foldable iPhone to move into trial production. This stage verifies assembly processes, component integration, and manufacturing quality before full-scale production begins.
Samsung Display supplies the foldable OLED panels used in the device and has reportedly completed preparations for volume production. Meanwhile, Taiwan-based Shinjuxing and American supplier Amphenol provide the 3D-printed hinge modules that play a major role in the device’s overall durability and user experience.
Recent rumors suggested that hinge-related challenges could push the launch into late 2026 or even early next year. However, the latest reports indicate that Apple remains on track for a September announcement, with sales expected to begin shortly afterward.
Industry sources also claim Apple could shift its launch strategy by focusing the September event on the Pro, Pro Max, and foldable Ultra models, while standard iPhone models arrive at a later date.
