Apple Reportedly Seeks 30% More Foldable iPhone Orders
According to industry sources, Apple's first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, sold out shortly after going on sale through Apple's official website and major retail channels on Friday, October 23. In response to stronger-than-expected demand, Apple has reportedly asked manufacturing partners to accelerate production and increase orders by as much as 30%. Foxconn, TSMC, and Shin Zu Shing are among the companies expected to benefit from the potential production expansion.
All iPhone Duo models reportedly sold out on launch day, with the next shipment wave expected on January 22, 2027. Despite its premium price, the device has attracted strong consumer interest. Resale prices have reportedly reached NT$100,000, approximately 33% above the original starting price of NT$74,900, highlighting the gap between initial supply and market demand.
Industry observers believe the initial production volume fell short of expectations due to a combination of assembly yield challenges and stronger-than-anticipated consumer demand. As a result, customers may have to wait until early 2027 to receive their devices. Apple is reportedly pushing its manufacturing partners to accelerate production, as delays could limit the company's ability to capitalize on the product's launch momentum and gain market share.
Market research estimates initially projected iPhone Duo shipments at approximately 6 million units in 2026. Following the surge in demand, estimates have reportedly increased to between 8 million and 10 million units. Shipments in 2027 could reach as many as 33 million units, according to industry forecasts.
If these projections materialize, the iPhone Duo could capture approximately 40% of the global foldable smartphone market in 2027, potentially challenging Samsung's position in the segment. Such a shift could intensify competition among smartphone manufacturers and accelerate changes in the global foldable phone market.
The production network involves several key companies. Foxconn is reportedly responsible for exclusive assembly, while TSMC manufactures the device's core processor chips. Hinge components, which are critical to the mechanical structure of a foldable smartphone, are supplied by a joint venture between Foxconn and Shin Zu Shing, with Amphenol serving as a secondary supplier.
Industry analysts attribute the current supply constraints primarily to limited hinge production capacity and the technical complexity of assembling the foldable device. Improving manufacturing yields and expanding component output could help ease shortages, shorten customer waiting times, and increase revenue for companies involved in the production chain.
The iPhone Duo's stronger-than-expected launch performance could also support renewed growth in the foldable smartphone segment. If consumer interest continues to rise, competing smartphone brands may accelerate their own foldable device development and product launches. This could expand the adoption of foldable smartphones and create additional demand for electronic components, including processors, mechanical hinges, flexible displays, and related device technologies.
