Apple Delays Release of iPhone Fold, iPhone 18 Pro Launches First

JAKARTA - The hope of seeing Apple's first foldable iPhone launch alongside next year's flagship series seems to have to be held back first. The latest leaks say that the device dubbed the "iPhone Fold" will likely not be immediately available when the iPhone 18 Pro line launches in autumn 2026.

This information comes from Bloomberg analyst Mark Gurman, who says Apple will likely still announce the iPhone Fold along with the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, but delivery to consumers will be weeks - or even months - later.

If this scenario happens, Apple is just repeating an old pattern. In 2017, the company also released the iPhone X some time after the iPhone 8 was first available in the market. So, for those who hope to "fold-fold-checkout directly", be patient - Apple seems to still play the timing strategy.

This delay signal is also reinforced by Barclays analyst Tim Long, who previously predicted that the new iPhone Fold would be sold around December 2026. Although his track record of predictions is not always accurate, the direction of the leak is now starting to be consistent: the release will not be simultaneous.

In terms of design, the iPhone Fold is said to carry a "folding book" concept with a large screen when opened - similar to the iPad mini - and a more compact shape when closed. Apple's biggest ambition? A foldable screen without creases. This ambition is allegedly the reason why Apple needs more time - because they are famous for not wanting to be half-baked.

In the midst of the foldable trend that has been enlivened by Samsung and other brands, Apple is indeed seen as "late". But as usual, they tend to wait until the technology is ready for premium - alias not just foldable, but also must be "Apple-level".

Until now, there has been no official confirmation from Apple. However, the heavy leaks show one thing: 2026 is almost certainly the debut of the folding iPhone, although it may come a little later than expected.

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