Apple is inching closer to releasing its first foldable iPhone, with early prototypes now in testing. But don’t expect a foldable iPad anytime soon as sources say Apple is putting that one on hold.
iPhone Fold Reaches Key Prototype Milestone, But iPad Fold Set Aside for Now
According to a DigiTimes report by Aaron Lee and Sherri Wang, which was picked up by 9to5Mac, Apple reached its Prototype 1 (P1) stage for the iPhone Fold in June 2025. That’s the first time Apple has built a fully functional folding iPhone unit.
According to the report:
Apple has quietly entered the early stages of developing its long-rumored foldable iPhone, with supply chain sources confirming that the company began its initial P1 (Prototype 1) phase in June. If everything stays on track, the device could complete prototype testing by the end of 2025 and proceed to the Engineering Verification Test (EVT) stage, setting the stage for a possible launch in the second half of 2026.
If true, this timeline suggests a potential late 2026 launch for Apple’s first foldable iPhone.
Key prototype specs reportedly include:
- 7.58-inch flexible display
- Titanium build
- Dual 48MP rear cameras
- Advanced hinge with amorphous metallic glass composite
What About the iPad Fold?
On the same day, Lee and Wang also reported that Apple has “paused progress” on a foldable iPad due to production challenges and weak market demand.
Sources familiar with the matter say Apple had also been exploring a foldable iPad… However, the company has decided to pause progress… Industry experts attribute this decision to manufacturing difficulties, increased production expenses—particularly related to flexible display technology—and a relatively modest consumer demand for larger foldable devices.
Analyst Jeff Pu had originally forecast a 2026 launch for the iPad Fold, while Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggested 2028 or later. Now, it seems the latter timeline is more likely… if Apple moves forward with it at all.
Apple’s Foldable Strategy: Best, Not First
Apple is once again sticking to its trademark strategy: enter late, but enter right. By delaying the iPad Fold and fine-tuning the iPhone Fold, Apple is betting on a polished experience instead of being first to market, just like it did with the Apple Watch and Vision Pro.
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