Apple's foldable iPhone may finally be ready for prime time in 2026

Apple's rumored foldable iPhone is now in full mass production and appears to be on track for a September 2026 launch, according to multiple reports citing sources who spoke with individuals working on the supply chain.

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The device, widely referred to as the iPhone Ultra or iPhone Fold, has passed key production hurdles and is moving toward large-scale assembly.

Chinese outlet Cailian Press and others confirm that Apple has locked the design and is working with Foxconn to scale up production, including a hiring push to meet demand. Despite earlier reports of hinge and yield issues, sources say these have been largely resolved, with the foldable iPhone expected to debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models later this year.

The iPhone Ultra is rumored to pack a 7.8-inch inner display, a 5.5-inch front screen, and Apple's A20 chip, with a starting price rumored between $2,000 and $2,500. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested there could be a delay to the sale window, but given these new rumors, it appears Apple is determined to keep the foldable on track for release in 2026.

In March, renowned Apple insider and Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman reported that the foldable iPhone will be released alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models in September. Additionally, Apple has reportedly told suppliers to prepare to make as many as 10 million foldable iPhones, an increase from the 7-8 million forecast earlier this year.

Frequently Asked Questions

TweakBot answers common questions about this news using TweakTown's own coverage from this page and related content from our archive. Tap a question to reveal the answer, or type your own below.

Question #1

How will the iPhone Ultra’s foldable hinge and reduced crease affect screen protectors and warranty coverage?

The primary article says engineers solved hinge issues and significantly reduced the crease with a new hinge design, but it does not mention effects on screen protectors or warranty coverage. This question cannot be answered from this article.

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Question #2

If Apple produces up to 10 million units, what are the likely initial availability regions and preorder expectations?

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Question #3

Given earlier hinge and yield issues, what potential production-related delays or limited supplies should buyers watch for at launch?

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Question #4

How might the reported $2,000–$2,500 starting price impact trade-in values or upgrade offers compared with iPhone 18 Pro models?

The article does not provide specific details about trade-in values or upgrade offers. Based on the foldable iPhone's rumored $2,000 to $2,500 starting price, one could expect higher trade-in credits or premium upgrade promotions compared with iPhone 18 Pro models, but the article does not state this explicitly.

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Previous reports revealed the foldable iPhone required engineers to overcome several engineering challenges as Apple's strict requirements for the device meant engineers had to solve some difficult issues, such as a significant reduction in the crease, and a new hinge design.