供应链报料：折叠 iPhone 进入原型试产，折叠 iPad 搁置

Core Insights - Apple is accelerating the development of its first foldable iPhone, entering the prototype phase after six years of commercialized foldable phones by Android manufacturers [1][2] - The foldable iPhone is expected to complete its main prototype testing by the end of 2025, with a potential release in the second half of 2026 [2][3][9] Development Timeline - Apple initiated the first prototype phase (P1) in June 2023, which will last approximately two months before moving to subsequent phases (P2 and P3) [2][8] - The timeline from P1 to mass production typically spans about a year, indicating a possible market entry in late 2026 if all goes smoothly [9] Technical Challenges - Apple has faced significant challenges in the foldable screen product line, including the shelving of a planned foldable iPad due to manufacturing difficulties and increased production costs [10] - The company must address various technical and product definition challenges before the launch, ensuring that the foldable iPhone offers sufficient innovation to justify its late entry into the market [12] Competitive Landscape - By 2026, Apple will enter a mature foldable smartphone market dominated by competitors like Samsung, Huawei, Xiaomi, OPPO, and vivo, who have refined their foldable technologies over the years [10] - Samsung has been in the foldable market for six years, and the competition has already produced thinner devices compared to flagship iPhones [10] Strategic Approach - Apple's strategy has historically been to wait for technology to mature before launching products, aiming to create benchmark products that define categories rather than being the first to market [12]