Apple reportedly planning five new iPhone models and ten million foldable devices

Supply chains and bargaining power

Despite chip supply bottlenecks, the goal is to gain market share—especially with more foldable models. The company is thus banking on a product format that has so far mainly been served by competitors from Asia, while at the same time trying to circumvent chip supply bottlenecks.

"Nikkei Asia" reports, citing industry insiders, that Apple has a stronger negotiating position than many of its competitors when it comes to procuring smartphone chips. The same applies to other handset components. This market position allows Apple to secure reliable delivery volumes even during phases of tight supply.

The production increase for foldable devices is part of a broader model rollout. With five new variants within around a year and a half, Apple is stepping up the pace compared with earlier cycles, in which three to four new iPhones were typically presented per year.

Foldable smartphones as a new pillar

Nikkei Asia reports from Taipei—a hub for semiconductors and contract manufacturing where many of Apple's suppliers are based. The report draws on industry insiders but does not name any individual sources. Apple has not issued any official statements regarding the production targets mentioned.

Market observers see the increased order volume as an indication that Apple intends to establish the foldable iPhone as a standalone product line. Until now, the company has not publicly announced any foldable iPhones; initial models have long been the subject of rumors.

In addition to foldable devices, Apple is also planning classic iPhone models as part of the five-model rollout, according to the report. The report does not specify which screen sizes, price tiers, or market launch dates the individual variants will have.

Outlook for 2027

The smartphone industry as a whole is affected by chip supply bottlenecks. Memory chips in particular are considered scarce, complicating production planning for many manufacturers. Apple's bargaining power over components is described in the report as an advantage over competitors that are more dependent on volatile supply structures.

Should Apple actually achieve the unit volumes mentioned, 2026/2027 would be one of the most ambitious production years in the company's history. At the same time, the success of the plan depends on whether the foldable models meet with sufficient demand in the market and whether supply chains remain stable throughout the year.