[News] Apple Reportedly Mulls Taiwan Pilot, India Mass Production for Foldable; Targets 10% Shipment Growth

According to Nikkei, Apple has reportedly been in talks with suppliers about establishing a test production line for a foldable iPhone in Taiwan, with plans to begin mass production in India by 2026. If realized, the plan would accelerate Apple’s shift of new product development out of China amid persistent U.S.–China tensions, the report adds.

Notably, Apple is reportedly preparing its boldest production push in years, with plans for a major shipment increase in 2026. Sources indicate that Apple is targeting a 10% rise in overall phone shipments, with the company viewing the long-anticipated foldable model as key to achieving that goal, the report highlights.

Apple’s Potential Foldable Path: Taiwan Pilot, India Mass Production

For its foldable iPhone, Apple reportedly plans to leverage the engineering expertise and supplier network in Taiwan to set up a mini pilot line, with mass production slated to take place in India, the report notes. Apple is working to bolster India’s fast-growing manufacturing base.

Still, the report indicates that the company faces challenges, as some suppliers reportedly struggle to import equipment from China. To address this, Apple is expanding its pool of local Indian suppliers and introducing new tool vendors from Taiwan, efforts already underway according to sources cited in the report.

Meanwhile, as Apple readies its first foldable, attention is also shifting to potential suppliers. Patently Apple, citing a well-known analyst, reports that Samsung Display is expected to provide a crease-free screen, while Sisa Journal identifies Amphenol, Dongguan Iontec, and FineMec as likely contenders to supply hinges.

Apple’s 2026 Outlook: Higher Volumes, First Foldable Launch

Sources indicate that Apple’s preliminary plan for its 2026 iPhone lineup calls for around 95 million units — the highest in years and more than 10% above 2025. In total, production across all models next year is expected to top 240 million units, representing about a 10% increase from this year, Nikkei notes.

According to TrendForce, the anticipated launch of Apple’s first foldable device in the second half of 2026 is expected to lift foldable phone penetration from 1.6% in 2025 to over 3% in 2027. TrendForce indicates that Apple is likely to launch its first foldable phone in the second half of next year, featuring a 5.5-inch external display and a 7.8-inch internal display. If confirmed, Apple’s entry is expected to significantly raise consumer interest and acceptance of foldables, especially among high-end users.

Read more

• Standardized Hinges and Apple’s Entry Expected to Push Foldable Phone Penetration Beyond 3% by 2027, Says TrendForce
• [News] Apple’s First Foldable iPhone Set for 2026 as Hinge Suppliers Compete

(Photo credit: Apple)