CALIFORNIA: Apple is reportedly preparing to expand its iPhone lineup with five new models by 2027, while significantly increasing production plans for its long-rumoured foldable iPhone.
According to foreign media reports, Apple has asked its suppliers to be ready to produce about 10 million foldable iPhones, as compared to previous reports that were predicting the number of 7 to 8 million. This reflects the increasing optimism regarding Apple’s foldable smartphone strategy.
With the upcoming launch of its first foldable iPhone, Apple has already managed to purchase enough components for about 80 million phones that are set to be launched in the second half of 2026. Apple’s overall smartphone production in 2023 is predicted to surpass 220 million units.
It is reported that Apple is set to launch at least two new iPhones in the first half of 2027, which include the new iPhone 18 and iPhone Air. These two phones would be followed by at least three other models of iPhones, by the end of 2027.
Apple’s reported production plans come amid a global shortage of memory chips driven by rising demand for artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, a trend that has increased manufacturing costs across the technology industry.
The reported roadmap follows Apple’s recent decision to raise prices for certain MacBook and iPad models, a move attributed to higher memory and storage component costs.
Apple has not officially confirmed the reported product roadmap or production targets.
