Apple’s first foldable iPhone, known as the iPhone Duo, is reportedly facing production problems that could restrict availability when it reaches stores in October. A supply-chain source told Jiemian News that final-assembly yields were only slightly above 60% as of September 17, leaving Foxconn with further work before production reaches a mature stage.

The reported manufacturing difficulties come just weeks before pre-orders begin. Apple unveiled the iPhone Duo on September 9, with pre-orders scheduled for October 16 and retail availability set for October 23. The device starts at $1,999 in the United States.

Assembly yields remain below mature production levels

According to Jiemian News, a person described as being close to Foxconn’s supply chain said Apple’s current quality standards could require another six months to a year before the assembly line reaches a mature yield. Foxconn is reportedly continuing to adjust equipment, assembly procedures, and production settings as it increases output.

The source also said suppliers were waiting to learn whether Apple would relax any quality requirements to speed up manufacturing. That decision could determine how quickly the company can build enough units for launch while maintaining its usual standards.

A separate report from MyDrivers said one of the iPhone Duo’s contract manufacturers asked Apple to choose between prioritizing yield and increasing output. Pushing the production line harder could result in more saleable phones, but it could also create more defective units and increase scrap costs.

Foldable display and hinge parts are also affected

The reported issues are not limited to final assembly. Jiemian News said Samsung Display’s foldable OLED panels and hinge components have experienced low yields, delivery delays, and design changes. Delays affecting those parts would leave Foxconn less time to tune its own production line.

Apple reportedly tested Liquid Metal for some hinge components before reassessing that approach ahead of mass production. Apple has said the hinge contains more than 100 components and includes a 3D-printed cover, adding complexity to one of the phone’s key mechanisms.

Limited first-year stock could raise availability concerns

Jiemian News reported that Apple’s global stocking target for the iPhone Duo in 2026 is approximately six million to eight million units. The publication compared that figure with typical full-cycle shipments of 20 million to 30 million units for an individual iPhone Pro or Pro Max model.

A separate retail source cited by the publication put Apple’s sales guidance above five million units. Those figures suggest the iPhone Duo could launch with substantially lower supply than established iPhone models, although the reported production targets do not confirm how many devices will ultimately reach customers.

Apple has not indicated that the announced October 23 availability date will change. Until production improves, buyers may face tighter launch-day inventory, particularly if demand is strong for the company’s first foldable iPhone.