Apple is preparing to make 2026 a turning point with the launch of the iPhone Fold. As the company ramps up plans for its first foldable iPhone, it’s already telling suppliers to expect a major sales surge, one that could reshape the entire lineup’s performance.
Apple expects iPhone Fold to boost iPhone 18 sales
According to Nikkei Asia, Apple has told suppliers to prepare for a 10% increase in iPhone 18 production. This expected bump is tied to the debut of the iPhone Fold, which Apple sees as a centerpiece product.
Not only does the company expect strong sales for the foldable itself, it believes the attention it draws will help lift demand across the board. In total, Apple aims to ship over 240 million iPhones in 2026, with 95 million from the iPhone 18 series alone.
Apple is about to release iOS 26.0.1 to fix major bugs like battery drain, overheating, and camera issues affecting iPhones after iOS 26.
iPhone Fold production pilot begins in Taiwan
To get the foldable ready for market, Apple is setting up a pilot production line in northern Taiwan. This facility will test and refine the manufacturing process. Once finalized, Apple plans to shift full-scale production to India as part of its broader supply chain diversification.
Still, that won’t be easy. Taiwan’s labor shortage poses a challenge, as the test line needs around 1,000 workers. Apple is reportedly securing equipment suppliers from Taiwan while also growing local partnerships in India.
iPhone Fold may redefine Apple’s device strategy
Though Apple hasn’t officially confirmed the iPhone Fold, evidence is stacking up. The company has filed multiple foldable-related patents and has mapped out a major product refresh between 2025 and 2027. With the iPhone Air launching in 2025, the foldable is widely expected to follow in 2026.
Foldable hype could drive a broader upgrade cycle
Apple isn’t betting everything on one device, it sees the iPhone Fold as a catalyst. The foldable may draw media attention, tech influencers, and curious buyers who, even if they don’t buy it, still upgrade within the iPhone 18 family.
This “halo effect” could help Apple achieve its 10% sales boost target across the entire range.
Apple stays cautious, but confident about growth
Some suppliers have warned that Apple tends to give high projections to cover risks, especially with a brand-new category. Even so, sources believe 5% growth is realistic, regardless of how the foldable performs.
Whether it becomes a must-have or just a status symbol, the iPhone Fold is already shifting Apple’s plans. And if 2026 plays out as expected, it won’t just change the product, it could reshape the upgrade cycle entirely.
