Apple is widely expected to launch its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Fold, this fall alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, though its commercial availability may follow a more staggered rollout due to limited early supply.
According to TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, supply chain indicators suggest that initial inventory levels may be insufficient for immediate widespread sales following the product announcement.
Kuo noted that Apple’s production plan for the iPhone Fold could mirror the launch pattern of the iPhone X in 2017, when the device was unveiled alongside other iPhone models but only became available for pre-order weeks later, with sales beginning in early November.
In terms of production forecasts, the supply chain is reportedly targeting 7 to 8 million units of the iPhone Fold in the second half of 2026. However, output for the third quarter is expected to be significantly lower, estimated between 500,000 and 1 million units, suggesting constrained availability during the early phase of launch.
By comparison, Apple is expected to produce around 20 million units of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max during the same period, highlighting the relatively limited scale of the foldable model’s initial rollout.
The disparity in production volumes points to a cautious launch strategy for Apple’s first foldable device, with broader availability likely only improving as manufacturing capacity ramps up following the initial release window.
Apple Watch Series 12 May Feature New Health Sensor Integrated into Band
Apple is once again rumoured to be working on expanding its wearable health capabilities, with reports suggesting that a future Apple Watch model could introduce a new health sensor integrated directly into the watch band.
According to leaker Kosutami, the sensor would be built into a silicone fluoroelastomer-style band, rather than the main watch body. However, details about what the sensor will measure remain unconfirmed.
If accurate, the development could mean that advanced health tracking features may initially be limited to a specific type of band, potentially the default or lower-cost strap included with the device. It is also possible that Apple could sell a dedicated sensor-equipped band separately as an accessory.
Speculation around potential capabilities includes a range of experimental health metrics Apple is believed to be exploring, such as hydration monitoring, muscle movement tracking, and other forms of external biometric sensing.
Apple has also been long reported to be working on non-invasive blood glucose monitoring, though that technology is expected to rely on sensors within the watch case itself rather than a band-based system.
The leaker behind the report has a mixed track record, having previously accurately predicted some Apple developments while also missing on others, including claims about changes to Apple Watch band connectors.
While the idea of sensor-equipped bands has surfaced repeatedly in Apple rumours, it remains unclear whether the company will adopt this approach or when such a feature could realistically arrive.
Apple’s Foldable iPhone May Launch in September, With Limited Availability Until 2027
