Foldable iPhone Production Stalls Amid Hinge Issues
Production of Apple's foldable iPhone, likely named the 'iPhone Ultra,' has encountered significant delays due to hinge reliability issues. The hinge, which is critical for the device's functionality, has failed to meet Apple's quality standards during testing. Despite these challenges, the expected release window remains on track for fall 2026, with mass production slated to begin in July.
- ▪Trial production of the foldable iPhone has stalled due to hinge reliability problems.
- ▪The hinge is designed using Liquid Metal components, which are more durable than traditional metals.
- ▪Apple aims to minimize screen creasing, with test results showing a visually crease-free state over time.
- ▪Mass production is planned to start in July, with a potential launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models in September.
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Foldable iPhone Production Stalls Amid Hinge IssuesMonday May 18, 2026 7:29 am PDT by Hartley CharltonTrial production of Apple's long-anticipated foldable iPhone, likely called the "iPhone Ultra," has run into a significant engineering hurdle centered on hinge reliability, according to a known leaker. The leaker known as "Instant Digital" posted on Weibo that the foldable device's hinge is consistently failing to meet Apple's quality control standards under conditions of prolonged, high-frequency opening and closing. The leaker described the mechanical wear issue as one that "must be resolved with absolute perfection; otherwise, progress will simply have to be stalled for the time being." The hinge has been a key focus of Apple's foldable development for years.
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