Apple’s first foldable iPhone, widely expected to be called the iPhone Ultra, is still on track for a September 2026 launch, despite recent rumours suggesting it could slip into next year.
A new report from the China Securities Journal, via DigiTimes, claims the device remains firmly in Apple’s production schedule. The report cites a source at an Apple supplier. Notably, the source says component shipments have already begun in small batches, a sign that the project is moving into its final manufacturing stages.
According to the same source, suppliers have also been told to prepare for a September unveiling, where the foldable iPhone is expected to appear alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. A second supply-chain source confirmed it has seen no indication of delay. Furthermore, production timelines are still aligned to a standard autumn release cycle.
The update directly challenges recent speculation that Apple’s foldable plans may be slipping. Earlier reports had suggested engineering issues could push the device beyond its expected window, particularly around durability testing.
One of the main concerns has reportedly been the hinge mechanism, with leaker Instant Digital claiming in May that Apple was still working to meet its long-term reliability targets. Display creasing is said to be largely resolved. However, hinge durability has remained a focus during final development.
Despite that, Apple is known for strict testing standards when launching entirely new product categories. Therefore, last-minute refinements wouldn’t be unusual.
There has also been conflicting analysis around launch timing. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman previously suggested the foldable iPhone may not arrive alongside the rest of the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. Meanwhile, Barclays analyst Tim Long has predicted a possible December release window, creating a gap between announcement and availability.
Apple has used staggered launches before, most notably with the iPhone X, which was announced in September 2017 but shipped in November. Other models arrived earlier.
If Apple follows a similar approach again, the foldable could still be unveiled at its September event. Even if retail availability comes later. It is also expected that Apple may split its broader iPhone lineup in future cycles. This could potentially push the standard iPhone 18 to a spring release next year.
The foldable iPhone Ultra is rumoured to feature a 7.8-inch inner display, a 5.5-inch cover screen, A20 chip, C2 modem, Touch ID power button, and a dual-camera setup. Pricing is expected to sit at around $2,000, placing it firmly in ultra-premium territory.
For now, though, the key takeaway is Apple’s foldable isn’t slipping, at least not yet.
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