- The iPhone Ultra could repeat the iPhone X launch as Apple's first foldable iPhone is expected to face limited production, making it difficult for many buyers to get one at release.
- Apple is reportedly preparing far fewer iPhone Ultra units than the iPhone 18 Pro models, which could result in longer delivery times and low availability during the initial launch.
- Strong demand combined with tight supply could push shipping into late 2026, while resellers may take advantage of the shortage by charging significantly above the retail price.
Apple’s first foldable iPhone is expected to arrive later this year, but buying one could be a different story. New supply chain information suggests the iPhone Ultra could repeat the iPhone X launch instead of following Apple’s usual release schedule.
That doesn’t mean the announcement will be displayed. It simply means many people may have to wait much longer before the phone is actually available. Let’s dive deeper into the story.
iPhone Ultra could repeat the iPhone X as Apple’s first foldable may be hard to buy
Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says Apple is expected to introduce the foldable iPhone together with the iPhone 18 Pro series in September. The problem is production. Current estimated suggest only 500,000 to 1 million foldable iPhones could be produced during the third quarter of 2026.
That’s a very small number compared to the 20 to 22 estimates for iPhone 18 Pro models expected during the same period. That difference alone explains why the iPhone Ultra repeats the iPhone X. Apple may announce the device on stage, but customers could end up waiting weeks, or even months, before they can actually buy one.
A similar situation happened in 2017. Apple introduced the iPhone X in September, but shipping started much later because production couldn’t keep up.
Foldable design is slowing production
Making a foldable phone is far more difficult than building a regular smartphone. Every part has to meet Apple’s quality standards before mass production can increase. Reports also suggest the phone could cost somewhere between $2,300 and $2,500.
Even at the price, demand is expected to be very strong. If the first batch sells out quickly, shipping dates could move into December. Limited availability may also create another problem. Resellers could ask much higher prices while supply remains tight.
Apple could still increase production
There are reports that Apple is working with suppliers to increase production closer to 10 million units if manufacturing improves. That would help Apple compete more aggressively in the foldable market, where Samsung currently holds the leasing position. Even so, it will likely take until 2027 before the market gets a clear picture of real customer demand.
Overall, at this point, the biggest concern isn’t whether Apple will launch a foldable iPhone. It’s whether enough people will actually be able to buy one. If current production estimates are accurate, the iPhone Ultra could repeat the iPhone X by launching with limited stock, long waiting times, and heavy demand during its first few months on sale.
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