Apple is expected to make a big change to its iPhone launch strategy this year. Instead of introducing all new iPhone models together, the company is reportedly planning to split the launch into two phases. The iPhone 18 Pro series and Apple’s first foldable iPhone, which is likely to be called the iPhone Ultra, could arrive later this year. Meanwhile, the standard iPhone 18 model is said to launch in 2027. While Apple has not confirmed these plans, several leaks and reports have hinted at this new strategy. Now, a new report suggests that the foldable iPhone may also follow the same launch pattern as the iPhone X.
According to supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple could unveil the foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. However, customers may have to wait a little longer before they can place their orders or buy the device.
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Kuo says Apple is expected to assemble only around 7 to 8 million foldable iPhones during the second half of 2026. Of these, just 500,000 to 1 million units may be ready during the third quarter. For comparison, Apple is expected to produce around 20 to 22 million units of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in the same period.
The iPhone Ultra is expected to be announced alongside the Pro models in September, but pre-orders and availability may only begin in the fourth quarter of 2026.
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— 郭明錤｜Ming-Chi Kuo (@mingchikuo) July 5, 2026
As per leaks, the iPhone Ultra is expected to feature a 7.8-inch OLED main display and a 5.5-inch outer screen. Powering the device could be the A20 Pro chip. Also, the foldable iPhone may house a 5,400mAh or 5,800mAh battery. For photography, the iPhone Ultra is said to equip a dual camera setup on the back, which may include a 48MP primary lens and a 48MP ultrawide lens. For selfies and video calls, there could be a 18MP front camera on both displays.
It’s important to note that all the details about the iPhone Ultra are based on leaks and reports So, it is advised to take them with a pinch of salt.