Apple foldable iPhone
Samsung couldn’t resist a playful jab after Apple launched the iPhone 17, reposting its 2022 tweet—“Let us know when it folds”—and adding the new hashtag #iCantBelieveThisIsStillRelevant.
Rumors suggest Apple may finally be answering that challenge. According to Nikkei Asia, the company has begun talks with suppliers to establish a prototype production line in northern Taiwan to test manufacturing processes for a foldable iPhone.
Prototype Production in Taiwan
Sources indicate that Apple’s partners are exploring a small pilot facility designed to test specialized equipment and refine the folding mechanism needed for such a device. Once the process is perfected, Apple reportedly plans to replicate the method in India, setting the stage for mass production as early as 2026.
Expanding Output
Apple also aims to boost overall iPhone production next year, targeting more than 95 million units in 2026—an increase of over 10 percent compared with last year.
This strategy appears to diversify Apple’s manufacturing footprint away from China amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. By pairing pilot operations in Taiwan with large-scale assembly in India, Apple can reduce risk while generating fresh excitement around a potential foldable iPhone.
Apple has not commented on the report. Earlier this month, at its annual product event, the company unveiled the iPhone 17 lineup and a slimmer iPhone Air, while keeping prices steady despite continuing U.S. tariffs.
