Apple’s long-rumoured entry into foldables looks set for 2026, with analysts projecting the company could ship up to 25 million units of its first foldable iPhone within the first year.

Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo revealed in a new investor note that Apple is preparing a foldable iPhone featuring ultra-thin glass (UTG), with Taiwan-based General Interface Solution (GIS) handling key backend processes such as cutting, inspection and packaging.

Corning will provide the UTG raw materials, a component significantly more complex and costly than standard smartphone glass.

Apple initially expected to ship 8–10 million units in 2026 but rising confidence in demand has reportedly pushed forecasts to as high as 25 million by 2027.

The device is tipped to be Apple’s most radical iPhone redesign since the original, and will introduce new mechanical components such as bearings to enable its foldable hinge system.

Adding intrigue, two conflicting reports have emerged around biometric technology.

Taiwan’s United Daily News claims Apple will revive fingerprint recognition with Qualcomm’s under-display solution, marking the first time in nearly a decade Touch ID would appear on an iPhone. GIS, which already supplies fingerprint modules for Samsung, is said to be the lead supplier.

However, Kuo disputes this, suggesting Apple will instead opt for side-button Touch ID, similar to the current iPad. Luxshare ICT is rumoured to be the supplier if that design path is chosen.

The foldable roadmap does not stop there.

Apple is expected to follow up with a foldable iPad in 2028, though at much lower volumes (0.5–1 million units in its first year) due to higher production costs.

Meanwhile, Apple is also advancing its mixed-reality ambitions.

A slimmer, more affordable “Vision Air” headset is slated for 2027, with GIS playing a crucial role in lens and lamination supply. Around one million units are forecasted for its debut year.