April 6 (Reuters) - Apple has been encountering setbacks in the engineering test phase of its first foldable iPhone, which could lead to delays in its mass production and product shipment schedule,
Apple's foldable iPhone faces engineering snags, potential shipment delays, Nikkei Asia reports
Engineering Setbacks and Potential Delays for Apple's Foldable iPhone
April 7 (Reuters) - Apple has been encountering setbacks in the engineering test phase of its first foldable iPhone, which could lead to delays in its mass production and product shipment schedule, Nikkei Asia reported on Monday, citing sources.
Key Details on Production Challenges
Here are some details:
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Engineering Development Issues
Engineering development issues could delay the first shipments of the foldable iPhones by months in a worst-case scenario, according to the Nikkei report.
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Unexpected Issues in Early Test Production
"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 matter.
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Bloomberg's Contrasting Report
However, Bloomberg News reported on Tuesday that Apple remains on track to release its first foldable iPhone in September, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max.
Uncertainty Around Release Timing
The timing is not final, as the release is still nearly six months away and production has not fully ramped up yet, according to the Bloomberg report, which cited people familiar with the matter.
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Apple's Response and Market Impact
Reuters could not verify the reports independently. Apple did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the reports.
Stock Market Reaction
Apple shares were down 2.7% in afternoon trading. They fell as much as 5.1% earlier in the day.
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Future Product Launch Plans
Nikkei had reported in January that Apple would focus on delivering its first foldable iPhone and two non-folding models with upgraded cameras and larger displays for a flagship launch in the second half of 2026.
Reporting and Editorial Credits
(Reporting by Anusha Shah in Bengaluru; Editing by Sherry Jacob-Phillips and Maju Samuel)
