Apple Foldable Devices Face Delays, Roadmap Shifts

Apple is developing multiple foldable devices including a book‑style foldable iPhone, a clamshell iPhone and a very large 18‑inch foldable iPad (codenamed J312). Recent leaks and analyst reports place a book‑style iPhone target as early as 2026 (some outlets say 2027), with a bezel‑free redesign around the iPhone’s 20th anniversary in 2027 and a clamshell model in 2028; some analysts have suggested Apple may skip “iPhone 19” and rebrand the 2027 lineup as the iPhone 20. Engineering and production challenges — hinge design, panel supply, durability, weight and cost — have prompted delay warnings that could stagger launches and limit initial volumes, and Apple is exploring design changes such as curved edges and under‑display Face ID. The 18‑inch J312 has prototype weight near 3.5 pounds and estimated prices around $3,000–$3,900, which has pushed its expected debut to 2029 or later and raised the possibility it could be canceled. Apple is reportedly working with Samsung Display on crease‑minimizing OLED panels and adjusting its supply chain, but timelines remain fluid and some foldable projects may be scaled back.