8th April 2026 – (Cupertino) Apple’s long‑anticipated foldable iPhone has reportedly run into technical difficulties during its engineering test phase, raising the prospect of delays to mass production and initial shipments.
According to a report by Nikkei Asia, development challenges emerging in early trial manufacturing could push back the device’s first deliveries by several months in a worst‑case scenario. One source cited in the report said more complications than expected had surfaced during preliminary production, requiring additional time for adjustments and refinements.
However, a separate report by Bloomberg News on Tuesday suggested the US technology giant is still aiming to unveil its first foldable handset in September, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models. The Bloomberg report noted that the timetable is not yet fixed, with roughly six months remaining before the expected launch and full‑scale production not yet under way.
Reuters said it was unable to independently confirm the claims, and Apple did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Investor sentiment appeared unsettled following the reports. Apple shares fell 2.7 per cent in afternoon trading, having earlier declined by as much as 5.1 per cent.
In January, Nikkei reported that Apple planned to prioritise the launch of its first foldable iPhone, accompanied by two conventional models featuring enhanced cameras and larger displays, as part of a flagship line‑up scheduled for release in the second half of 2026.