Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone appears to have taken a significant step closer to reality, with multiple reports suggesting the device has now entered early “trial production” at manufacturing partner Foxconn.

According to supply chain sources in China, the so-called ‘iPhone Fold’ is currently being produced in limited test batches – a standard pre-mass production phase used to validate design, components and assembly processes.

While Apple has not confirmed the device, the move is one of the clearest indicators yet that the company is preparing to enter the foldable smartphone market.

The device is expected to adopt a book-style design, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold7 (pictured below), which released last year, rather than a clamshell format.

Leaks point to a 7.7-inch internal folding display paired with a smaller external screen, with Apple reportedly focusing heavily on minimising the visible crease – a longstanding issue in foldable devices.

Reports also suggest Apple is developing software alongside the hardware, with iOS 27 tipped to include foldable-specific features such as enhanced multitasking, split-screen functionality and an interface closer to the iPad experience.

Timing, however, remains uncertain. Some sources indicate a second-half 2026 launch window, potentially alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, while others suggest Apple could opt for a staggered release – possibly pushing the foldable to a later, standalone launch.

The broader market is already reacting. Rival manufacturers including Samsung, Oppo and Honor are reportedly adjusting their own foldable designs in anticipation of Apple’s entry, with a shift toward wider, book-style devices.

Apple’s new device could significantly accelerate the foldable category, with forecasts suggesting strong growth in 2026 driven by premium demand – albeit at a likely price point above A$3,000.

Despite the growing volume of leaks, key questions remain unanswered, including durability, crease visibility and how Apple’s software experience will compare to more mature foldable platforms.

It was previously reported that Apple has already ramped up display orders by as much as 33%, while separate analyst reports suggest the device’s launch timing could shift toward a December release rather than Apple’s traditional September window.

Earlier reports also revealed Apple has explored multiple foldable form factors, including a potential clamshell-style ‘iPhone Flip’, although current leaks suggest the first device will prioritise a larger book-style design.