Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) is encountering technical challenges during the engineering test phase of its first foldable iPhone, potentially pushing back the timeline for mass production and initial shipments, according to a report by Nikkei Asia on Monday.
Citing people familiar with the matter, the publication said issues discovered during early development testing could delay the device’s launch schedule by several months in a worst-case scenario.
“It’s true that more issues than expected have emerged during the early test production phase, and additional time will be needed to resolve them and make necessary adjustments,” the report said, quoting one source familiar with the situation.
Reuters said it was unable to independently confirm the report. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside regular U.S. business hours.
Nikkei had previously reported in January that Apple planned to introduce its first foldable iPhone alongside two new non-folding models featuring upgraded cameras and larger displays, with a flagship launch expected in the second half of 2026.