Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone may finally appear in 2026, but buyers worldwide might not get it at the same time. The company could unveil the device at its September event, according to a new report. Internally, Apple allegedly refers to the foldable model as the “iPhone Ultra.”
However, Apple has not officially confirmed the product, its name, or its launch schedule. The report suggests the United States could receive the device first. Other countries may then gain access during a phased rollout over the following months.
Supply and Pricing Could Affect iPhone Ultra Launch
Supply constraints may play a major role in the proposed launch strategy. An unnamed component supplier reportedly linked the possible delay to supply and pricing challenges. The source also claimed that production models had experienced testing issues.
Still, reports about testing problems remain uncertain. Another recent account suggested that Apple encountered early issues with the foldable device but later resolved them.
Meanwhile, Australian carriers have reportedly indicated that the foldable phone will not arrive alongside the iPhone 18. That detail adds further support to expectations of a staggered international release.
Apple Has Used Staggered Rollouts Before
A US-first launch would not represent a completely new strategy for Apple. The company introduced the Vision Pro in the United States before expanding availability to other countries. Production complexity contributed to that slower rollout.
Similarly, a foldable iPhone would introduce a new form factor to Apple’s smartphone lineup. Therefore, the company could initially limit production while it manages manufacturing demands and market response.
Current estimates cited in the document put expected orders at around 10 million units. Earlier figures ranged between seven million and eight million.
Foldable iPhone Could Become a Long-Term Product
Despite the possible cautious launch, Apple may have ambitious plans for foldable devices. One report claims the company is already exploring a third-generation model for a potential 2028 release.
For now, the iPhone Ultra remains unconfirmed. Nevertheless, growing supply-chain reports suggest Apple’s first foldable iPhone could become one of its most significant new products in years.
