Apple Plans Five New iPhone Models, Boosts Foldable Production to 10 Million Units

Apple is preparing to release five new iPhone models over the next year while significantly boosting production targets for its highly anticipated foldable handset. The expanded hardware roadmap comes as the company looks to gain market share during an industrywide memory shortage affecting Android rivals.



According to Nikkei Asia, Apple has instructed suppliers to build around 10 million foldable iPhones this year, up from previous estimates of 7 to 8 million. The company has already booked components for 80 million smartphones for the second half of 2026, including the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the first foldable iPhone. Apple has also reportedly forecast production of up to 85 million new iPhones during the period as it moves aggressively to secure components amid ongoing shortages.


Apple and its manufacturing partners have reportedly made progress resolving recent engineering snags related to the foldable's hinge mechanism. That aligns with recent supply chain indications that hinge issues have largely been resolved, increasing the likelihood that limited shipments will begin following its autumn unveiling. However, the bulk of foldable production is not expected until the end of the year as assembly lines adapt to the new form factor.

To support this premium focus in the fall, Apple is splitting its release schedule. As previously rumored, the standard iPhone 18 and a new iPhone Air have been pushed to the first half of 2027. The company is also evaluating a refresh of its lower-priced iPhone lineup for next spring, though those plans are not yet finalized.

The expansive roadmap is being fueled by Apple's purchasing power with suppliers. While Chinese brands like Xiaomi and Oppo are cutting annual production below 100 million units due to a severe memory chip shortage, Apple is securing the components it needs. The company has instructed suppliers to reserve common chips and components used in the iPhone 17 series for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models. Apple's total iPhone production for 2026 is expected to exceed 220 million units.

Apple has already raised prices across its Mac and iPad lineups this year as memory costs climbed. While the company has so far shielded the iPhone 17 series from those increases, industry executives warn that Apple's production plans could still shift depending on market demand and whether rising memory costs ultimately force price increases for the iPhone 18 lineup.