A big hinge price drop could make Apple’s foldable iPhone more affordable. According to a new report, once mass production begins, the hinge’s average selling price will drop to $70–$80, whereas earlier estimates had placed it at $100–$120. This cost reduction could help Apple preserve a strong profit margin or make the foldable iPhone a bit more affordable for consumers.
Apple’s foldable iPhone may cost less than expected thanks to Foxconn’s optimized hinge production strategy. A new joint venture between Foxconn and Shin Zu Shing is working on the hinge for the so-called iPhone Fold, with Foxconn owning a slightly larger share in the partnership.
Together, these two suppliers have teamed up to capture nearly 65% of Apple’s hinge orders, while the remaining 35% will be manufactured by Amphenol. This strategic alliance enables Apple to retain strong control over quality and consistency for one of the most crucial components of a foldable device.
The Way Apple Manages Suppliers To Boost Its Foldable iPhone Plans
The lower cost doesn’t come from using cheaper materials but from more efficient production, as Foxconn’s high-volume manufacturing and streamlined assembly methods allow Apple to cut expenses without sacrificing reliability.
Shin Zu Shing is still within Apple’s supplier network, but its impact may be limited. Because Foxconn leads the joint venture and takes the majority of the profits, SZS has far fewer chances to expand its role in this segment. In a broader sense, the hinge strategy for the foldable iPhone demonstrates Apple’s intention to strike the right balance between strength, performance, and production efficiency. This careful approach acts as an essential foundation for launching a product that enters a completely new category and must meet high consumer expectations.
The Company Is Expected To Use An Aluminum- Titanium Hybrid Frame
Regarding the device, recent reports suggest that Apple is targeting a 2026 launch for the foldable iPhone, which will feature a 7.8-inch internal display and a 5.5-inch external display. The company is also expected to use an aluminum-titanium hybrid frame, which will minimize the crease because of the hinge design. If Apple manages to control the cost, we might see the first foldable iPhone, which could be priced slightly lower than initially expected.