Foldable iPhone Hit with Launch Delays, Stock Shortages Amid Engineering Hurdles

Apple's highly anticipated foldable iPhone is facing significant engineering hurdles and manufacturing challenges that could lead to launch delays, stock shortages, and a surge in prices on the black market.

Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that the phone will follow a similar launch schedule as the iPhone X, with an announcement in September but limited early production runs pushing availability to the fourth quarter of this year.

Kuo expects total assembly shipments for the third quarter to be between 500,000 and 1 million units, a stark contrast to the projected 20-22 million units for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models during the same period.

The complex engineering challenges Apple faces include developing a dual-layer glass structure to reduce screen creases and perfecting the hinge design. The company is taking its time to solve these technical problems, which may lead to a shortage of supply when the phone is released.