iPhone Ultra Release Details
Apple is set to release its first foldable iPhone, rumored to be called the iPhone Ultra, later this year. According to supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the device will have limited availability upon its launch. The iPhone Ultra is expected to be announced alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models in September, but its shipment may be delayed due to manufacturing challenges.
Key Features of iPhone Ultra
The iPhone Ultra will feature a 5.5-inch external display and a 7.8-inch internal display, similar to an iPad mini in size when unfolded. With a thickness of under 5mm, it will be thinner than the current iPhone Air. The price range for this device is anticipated to be between $2,300 and $2,500, as reported by 9to5Mac.
Limited Availability and Delayed Shipments
As per Kuo’s report, the iPhone Ultra may face a delay in its shipping schedule, similar to the iPhone X. Initial shipments in the third quarter of 2026 are estimated to be between 0.5 to 1 million units, only about 10% of the total production. This limited availability could extend delivery times to four to six weeks or more.
Comparison with iPhone 18 Pro Models
While the iPhone Ultra is expected to face supply constraints, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models will have a more robust launch. Apple is projected to ship around 20 to 22 million units of these models, meeting inventory requirements for an official launch. This is a significant contrast to the lower initial production numbers for the foldable iPhone.
Impact on Apple’s Supply Chain
The delay and limited availability of the iPhone Ultra highlight ongoing challenges in Apple’s supply chain. The foldable device’s complex manufacturing process contributes to these constraints. This situation mirrors the launch of the iPhone X, which also faced production and supply issues upon its release.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features does the iPhone Ultra have?
The iPhone Ultra is expected to have a 5.5-inch external display and a 7.8-inch internal display. It will be thinner than the iPhone Air, with a thickness under 5mm.
Why is the iPhone Ultra’s availability limited?
The limited availability of the iPhone Ultra is due to manufacturing challenges and a slow production ramp-up. Initial availability will be significantly lower compared to other models.
When will the iPhone Ultra be available?
The iPhone Ultra is expected to be announced in September 2026, but shipments might be delayed, with some units potentially not available until December.
How does the iPhone Ultra compare to the iPhone 18 Pro?
The iPhone 18 Pro models are expected to have higher initial availability, with shipments between 20 to 22 million units, compared to the limited supply of the iPhone Ultra.
Related coverage
Sources
- 9to5Mac – Report: iPhone Ultra to have incredibly limited availability at launch, may ship slightly later
- MacRumors – ‘iPhone Ultra’ Likely to ‘Repeat the iPhone X Story’
- MacRumors – iPhone 18 With 9GB RAM Still Won’t Support Two New iOS 27 Features
