[News] Apple Reportedly Boosts iPhone Fold Inventory Build 20% Amid Strong Confidence, Lifting Foxconn, TSMC

Apple is reportedly showing strong confidence in its upcoming foldable products, which are slated to launch in the second half of the year. According to Economic Daily News, sources say Apple has significantly increased supply chain inventory preparations for its forthcoming foldable phone, raising orders by about 20% above the original target. The report adds that partners including Foxconn, Largan Precision, and TSMC are expected to see increased orders.

Foxconn chairman Young Liu also hinted at Apple’s strong expectations for foldable devices. As the report notes, Liu said a major client is highly confident about its upcoming foldable product. He added that the client is a world-leading company with high standards, and although its foldable device may arrive later than others, a mainstream model will definitely be released. The market widely speculates that the client Liu referred to is Apple.

Apple’s anticipated entry into the foldable segment is also expected to have broader implications for the overall market. According to TrendForce, the launch of Apple’s first foldable device in the second half of 2026 is projected to lift foldable smartphone penetration from 1.6% in 2025 to over 3% in 2027.

Apple Locks In iPhone Fold Supply Chain as Premium Launch Nears

Regarding the iPhone Fold’s supply chain partners, Economic Daily News indicates that Foxconn will handle final assembly, while TSMC will manufacture the processor. Largan will supply high-end camera lenses, and Shin Zu Shing (SZS) will provide the key hinge components, with all four Taiwanese companies playing critical roles in the supply chain.

Among them, as the report highlights, the hinge—considered the most critical component—has been developed by Apple in collaboration with these partners using high-strength liquid metal hinge technology. This material features low deformation and high toughness, which in theory can significantly improve folding durability while maintaining a refined in-hand feel.

The report states that key components are expected to begin shipping between the end of the second quarter and the third quarter, with the device slated for an official launch before year-end. It adds that the supply chain for the first-generation iPhone Fold has largely been finalized, with related supply chain operations already underway.

Beyond the supply chain preparations, as noted by Forbes, citing Bloomberg, Apple’s foldable iPhone is expected to carry a price tag of roughly $2,000, featuring a large inner display and new technologies such as in-display sensors. The device is rumored to include a 7.8-inch crease-free screen and the return of Touch ID integrated into the power button. Bloomberg also notes that the foldable iPhone aligns with Apple’s broader push toward more premium “Ultra” products, a category that could also include next-generation AirPods and a high-end MacBook Pro with a touchscreen.

Read more

• [News] Apple Foldable Rumors Roundup: Tougher Screen Layer, Crease-Free Display, and Massive Battery
• [News] Apple Reportedly Plans Clamshell-Style iPhone After First Foldable, Taking Aim at Galaxy Z Flip

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