Apple is preparing for an unprecedented launch in the foldable market, reportedly placing a massive Foldable iPhone Panel Order for 22 million OLED units with exclusive supplier Samsung Display. This enormous volume 11 million internal and 11 million external panels suggests Apple is targeting initial production of approximately 10 million finished devices. This goal is more than 30% higher than previous industry forecasts, signaling the company’s aggressive confidence in the new category.
The highly anticipated device, widely referred to as the iPhone Fold, is expected to debut in Fall 2026, likely alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. The design is rumored to feature a book-style, inward-folding mechanism with a large 7.58-inch internal display. Crucially, multiple reports indicate Apple has achieved a breakthrough with an advanced hinge design, aiming to launch a truly “crease-free” foldable phone.
The scale of this Foldable iPhone Panel Order has already shaken the market. Analysts now project that Apple’s entry alone will accelerate the global foldable market’s growth and expect the iPhone Fold to capture over 22% of unit share and 34% of the market value in its debut year. This confidence comes despite an expected ultra-premium price tag of around $2,400.
By securing the supply chain for such a large initial production run, Apple is making a strong statement that it intends to immediately dominate the high-end foldable segment. This massive ramp-up confirms that the launch of the iPhone Fold is poised to be one of the most consequential product debuts of 2026.
