Recent supply-chain insights suggest a strategic reallocation of resources within Apple, with engineers previously dedicated to the Vision Pro project now shifting their focus toward the development of a foldable iPhone or iPad. 

With this, a new rumor indicates a potential delay in the launch of the foldable iPhone, pushing the anticipated release from 2026 to 2027. Despite these shifts, suppliers have been instructed to adhere to their original production schedules.

Apple Moves Vision Pro Engineers to Folding iPhone Project, Prompts Delay to 2027
(Photo : Roméo A. from Unsplash)
Apple Vision Pro is still a hot item released just last month. A new report tells us the engineers behind this VR wearable have been transferred to work on a folding iPhone or iPad.

What's With the Folding iPhone?

Previous reports have highlighted ongoing collaborations between Apple and display suppliers Samsung and LG in folding screen technology. 

Speculation abounds regarding the form factor of the anticipated device, with discussions ranging from a foldable iPhone to a foldable iPad. 

Survey data suggests a preference among consumers for a device resembling the iPhone Pro in its folded state, which unfolds to reveal an iPad mini-sized display.

However, MacRumors report says that the first foldable device of Apple won't be an iPhone. According to the supply chain sources, it would be a "larger device" than the next-gen smartphone.

With that in mind, the iPad could be the best candidate for this possibility. Apple Insider previously wrote that the foldable iPad might be preparing for its late 2024 release.

Related Article: Woot Rolls Out First Discount For Apple Vision Pro at $150 Off, But You Need to Act Quick

Apple Vision Pro Engineers Will Be Focusing on New Project

As 9to5Mac spotted via Korea's Alpha Biz, Apple executives have cited logistical considerations, including the readiness of foldable display supply, as grounds for delaying the foldable iPhone launch to the first quarter of 2027. 

Concurrently, internal restructuring has led to the reassignment of Vision Pro engineers to support the development of foldable devices, hinting at a turning point within Apple's product roadmap.

While these reports offer intriguing glimpses into Apple's evolving product strategy, they must be interpreted with caution due to the speculative nature of the information. Nevertheless, the transfer of engineering talent to another project means that the Cupertino giant is openly exploring emerging technologies and pushing the boundaries of innovation. 

As for the revised launch timeline, Apple remains steadfast in its approach of teasing products only when they meet the company's exacting standards of quality and performance.

In other news, a new Google Pixel 9 leak surfaced recently, Tech Times reports. Based on the new leaked renders, the XL variant is touted to be available in the future.

It is expected that a major overhaul in design is coming. The leak alleges that the three Pixel 9 variants will have little differences in sizes.

The most obvious change lies with their cameras. The base Pixel 9 model will boast two lenses while both the Pixel 9 Pro and XL will sport a three-camera setup.

Just like we always say to the readers, the leaks are half-baked reports that further need verification. Until there's no word we hear from Google, always take them with a grain of salt.

Read Also: Samsung Withdraws From iPhone SE 4 Display Deal With Apple, China's BOE to Take the Lead

Joseph Henry

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