The Apple iPhone Fold/Ultra may have been delayed to next year

Apple’s first foldable iPhone, potentially called the iPhone Ultra or Fold, may be delayed until early next year. Largan Precision CEO Lin En-ping noted that some new product launches are postponed, a shift analysts link to the foldable device previously expected to debut this autumn.

Why is the iPhone Fold launch potentially delayed?

Supply chain indicators suggest a shift in Apple’s release schedule. Largan Precision CEO Lin En-ping stated that while the fourth quarter will be busier than previous years, some new products are postponed to early next year due to “customer new product scheduling factors.”

Analysts believe this specific delay refers to the iPhone Ultra or Fold. Until recently, leaks suggested the device would be the “one more thing” reveal during the iPhone 18 Pro event this September. Now, the timeline points toward a later arrival, potentially pushing Apple’s entry into the foldable market past the 2026 window some predicted.

Did you know? Apple has used delayed launches before. The iPhone X was announced alongside the iPhone 8 in September but didn’t actually hit shelves until a month later.

How will the iPhone 18 lineup be released?

Apple is reportedly splitting the iPhone 18 reveal into two distinct phases. According to reports, the company will first unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max—and possibly the Ultra—this September.

The remaining models will follow later. The standard iPhone 18, the 18e, and a new “iPhone Air” are expected to be announced in spring 2027. This staggered approach allows Apple to maintain news cycles and manage supply chain pressures for the more complex foldable hardware.

What are the market expectations for Apple’s foldable?

Despite the potential delay, market analysts expect a strong debut. Projections suggest the iPhone Fold will ship 11 million units in its first year. This volume would immediately establish Apple as a major competitor in a space currently dominated by Samsung.

Previous predictions suggested Apple would become a top-three foldable player by 2026. While a delay to early next year makes that specific timeline tighter, the projected shipment numbers indicate the device will still make a significant market impact.

Pro Tip: If you’re eyeing a foldable, watch the September event for a “coming soon” teaser. Apple often uses these teasers to gauge interest and secure pre-orders before a physical launch.

Comparison: Projected Rollout vs. Previous Expectations

Feature	Initial Leaks	Current Supply Chain Reports
Foldable Launch	Autumn (September)	Early Next Year
iPhone 18 Strategy	Single Event	Split Event (Sept & Spring 2027)
Key Models	iPhone 18 Series	Pro, Max, Ultra, 18, 18e, Air

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the iPhone Fold be released?
While previously expected this autumn, supply chain sources including Largan Precision CEO Lin En-ping suggest some new products are postponed to early next year.

Apple’s Foldable iPhone Delay – Chasing Perfection or Setting Up Failure? !!

What is the iPhone Ultra?
The “Ultra” is a rumored name for Apple’s first foldable device, designed to sit at the top of the iPhone hierarchy.

Is there an iPhone Air coming?
Reports indicate an “iPhone Air” is expected to be announced in spring 2027 as part of the split iPhone 18 rollout.

How many units is Apple expected to sell?
Market analysts predict the foldable iPhone will ship 11 million units in its first year.

For more on the latest hardware leaks, check out our guide to upcoming smartphone trends or read the original report via AppleInsider.

Would you wait for a foldable iPhone, or is the standard slab design still better? Let us know in the comments below.