Apple’s highly anticipated foldable iPhone, tentatively named the iPhone Ultra, is expected to debut later this year. However, recent insights from supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggest that the device may face significant supply constraints at launch, potentially leading to a delayed release.
The iPhone Ultra is rumored to feature a 5.5-inch external display and a 7.8-inch internal display, offering a form factor comparable to an iPad mini. When unfolded, the device is expected to be under 5mm thick, making it slimmer than the current iPhone Air. The anticipated price range is between $2,300 and $2,500.
According to Kuo, Apple plans to produce approximately 7 to 8 million units of the foldable iPhone in the second half of 2026. Notably, only about 0.5 to 1 million units are slated for shipment in the third quarter, coinciding with the typical September launch window. In contrast, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models are projected to have shipments totaling 20 to 22 million units in the same period, indicating a stark difference in initial availability.
This limited initial supply suggests that the iPhone Ultra may not be readily available at launch. Kuo draws parallels to the iPhone X, which experienced a similar scenario where constrained supply led to delayed shipping times. Prospective buyers might face delivery times extending to 4-6 weeks or longer, with availability potentially normalizing by December. Additionally, the scarcity could result in the iPhone Ultra being resold at premiums of 50-100% over its retail price.
For consumers eager to acquire the iPhone Ultra upon release, placing a preorder promptly appears to be the most viable strategy. Given the projected low shipment volumes in the third quarter, walk-in purchases may be challenging. Kuo anticipates that the initial demand surge and supply limitations will subside by the first quarter of 2027, providing a clearer picture of the market’s reception to Apple’s foldable device.
The impending launch of the iPhone Ultra marks a significant milestone in Apple’s product lineup, introducing a foldable design that has been the subject of speculation for years. While the device’s innovative features are poised to attract considerable interest, the anticipated supply constraints underscore the complexities involved in bringing such advanced technology to market. Consumers should be prepared for potential delays and limited availability, reflecting the challenges inherent in launching a first-generation foldable smartphone.
