Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone may finally be on the horizon, with the company exploring new production strategies to navigate global challenges. According to a report from Nikkei Asia, Apple has been in discussions with suppliers about setting up a test production line in Taiwan, potentially leading to mass production in India for a 2026 launch.
The move comes as Apple seeks to boost its overall iPhone shipments, which are expected to increase by about 10% in 2026.
Introducing a folding model could spark renewed interest in the iPhone lineup, including traditional non-foldable devices. Apple has reportedly projected around 95 million units for its 2026 iPhone lineup—the highest in recent years—bringing the total annual production to over 240 million phones. For comparison, the iPhone 17 series, introduced recently, has an initial projection of 85 million units this year, with a total of about 220 million iPhones expected in 2025.
Geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China are a key driver behind this plan. By diversifying production, Apple aims to reduce its reliance on China and speed up the development of new products. The strategy involves leveraging Taiwan’s strong engineering ecosystem for initial testing before scaling up in India. As per Nikkei’s sources, the proposed pilot line in Taiwan would serve as a facility to verify equipment, refine manufacturing processes, and ensure everything runs smoothly. Once optimized, these steps would be replicated in India for full-scale production.
However, the plan is still in early stages and not finalized. Suppliers have identified a potential site in a northern Taiwanese city, but challenges remain. Taiwan’s limited land and labor resources could make even a small pilot line difficult, as it might require around a thousand workers. In India, Apple is working to build up manufacturing capabilities, but hurdles persist. Suppliers face issues importing equipment from China or bringing in Chinese experts due to ongoing tensions. To address this, Apple is reportedly looking for local Indian suppliers and partnering with Taiwanese tool providers.
This Taiwan-India plan is designed to mitigate risks from U.S.-China trade disputes. India has become a vital hub for Apple, especially under the Modi government, which is eager to enhance its tech manufacturing sector. Recent meetings between Indian and Chinese leaders show signs of easing tensions, but uncertainties linger.
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