Apple is struggling to meet the expectations of users with its first foldable iPhone. During the November 2 earnings call, the Chief Operating Officer of the company, Sabih Khan, acknowledged the delay in the shipment of the foldable devices.
The event was full of questions regarding the rising costs of memory chips. Amid this, the COO of the company stated, “iPhone Duo is constrained as of today. The ramp is going well, and we’re working hard to get this revolutionary new product into the hands of our customers as quickly as possible. But at this time, it’s really hard to predict when supply and demand will be in balance.”
His statement clearly stated that it’s uncertain when the company will catch up with the rising demand. Therefore, buyers who have missed the first sale may now have to wait until 2027 to receive their phones. The device sold out on Apple's website within hours of going on sale, pointing to strong interest in the new model.
The long wait has put Apple’s production plans under pressure. The company is trying to make more units and has strengthened its partnership with titanium supplier Perryman to secure materials. At the same time, higher memory costs and supply issues are adding to the challenge. Apple has not shared when delivery times are likely to return to normal.
Also Read: iPhone Duo ‘Crackgate’: Apple Confirms Display Fault in Some Units
Making a foldable phone is more complex than making a regular smartphone. The hinge must open and close smoothly, even after repeated use. The flexible display must bend without cracking or losing its quality. All these parts must also fit into a slim design without making the phone too heavy or fragile.
Samsung and other brands have been making foldable phones for years. This has given them time to improve their designs and production methods. Apple, on the other hand, is entering the market with its first foldable model. It may have miscalculated the troubles to produce the phone in large numbers while meeting its quality standards.