Apple's foldable iPhone could be released this fall, but it might be challenging to actually get one.

Apple's foldable iPhone could be released this fall, but it might be challenging to actually get one.

      The excitement surrounding Apple’s foldable iPhone might lead to a shortage upon its launch.

      Apple’s initial foldable iPhone could have a situation akin to the iPhone X release come this fall. According to a new report from industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the anticipated iPhone Ultra (the foldable iPhone) may be unveiled alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, but preorders and sales could be delayed as early production is expected to be very limited.

      Kuo indicates that Apple plans to produce around 7 million to 8 million foldable iPhones during the latter half of 2026. However, there’s a timing issue, as only 0.5 million to 1 million units are likely to be available in the third quarter, which coincides with Apple's typical preparations for its September iPhone launch. In contrast, it’s believed that the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will have about 20 million to 22 million units ready for the same timeframe.

      Apple might follow the iPhone X strategy

      Longtime Apple fans could recognize this scenario. In September 2017, Apple introduced the iPhone X alongside the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus, but preorders didn’t commence until late October, with sales starting in November. This limited early production was due to the iPhone X's significant hardware innovations, including an OLED all-screen design, Face ID, and the TrueDepth camera system.

      The foldable iPhone might encounter a similar predicament. Previous reports have pointed to production issues related to the hinge, though more recent analyses suggest Apple has resolved many of these challenges. Nevertheless, Kuo’s latest shipment predictions imply that Apple might not have sufficient units ready for a comprehensive retail launch in September.

      Launch supply may be severely constrained

      The foldable iPhone is anticipated to carry a hefty price tag, with Kuo estimating it will be around $2,300 to $2,500. This hefty price may not deter early demand; Kuo believes the device could quickly sell out once preorders begin, with delivery estimates potentially extending to 4 to 6 weeks or even longer into December.

      Apple also seems to be confident that demand will persist beyond the initial model. Bloomberg previously reported that the company is already planning for a second generation foldable iPhone for 2027, just a year following the expected launch of the first model. This scarcity could still lead to issues in the short term, as a limited initial supply, a novel foldable design, and strong launch anticipation may allow scalpers to charge exorbitant prices.

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      The United States has launched a substantial time capsule to celebrate its 250th anniversary, and among the numerous artifacts selected to symbolize contemporary America is an item that nearly everyone today would recognize: an iPhone 17 Pro Max. The stainless steel capsule, weighing approximately 900 pounds (around 400kg), was buried in Philadelphia as part of the country's semiquincentennial festivities. It is set to remain sealed for the next 250 years, with plans to open it in 2276 during America’s 500th anniversary celebrations.

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      Apple is poised to unveil three new iPhones this fall, comprising the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the speculated foldable iPhone Ultra. The iPhone 18 Pro Max was notably indicated to receive a significant battery enhancement, with one leak revealing a 5,235mAh battery capacity for the physical SIM version and a 5,425mAh battery for the eSIM-only version. Now, China’s 3C certification database (via Digital Chat Station) seems to confirm the actual battery capacities for both the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Interestingly, the Pro Max figures listed there are even larger than initially leaked.

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      iOS 27 has finally delivered the greatly improved Siri experience that Apple had promised three years ago. The new Siri, referred to as Siri AI, feels genuinely useful now. I can utilize it to create shortcuts, receive answers tailored to my personal context, execute actions in apps, and much more. Among all the Siri AI features, three straightforward ones have truly enhanced my daily experience. Let’s discuss them.

      Search functionality has seen improvements across the board.

Apple's foldable iPhone could be released this fall, but it might be challenging to actually get one. Apple's foldable iPhone could be released this fall, but it might be challenging to actually get one. Apple's foldable iPhone could be released this fall, but it might be challenging to actually get one. Apple's foldable iPhone could be released this fall, but it might be challenging to actually get one. Apple's foldable iPhone could be released this fall, but it might be challenging to actually get one. Apple's foldable iPhone could be released this fall, but it might be challenging to actually get one. Apple's foldable iPhone could be released this fall, but it might be challenging to actually get one.

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Apple's foldable iPhone could be released this fall, but it might be challenging to actually get one.

Ming-Chi Kuo indicates that Apple’s foldable iPhone might adhere to the iPhone X strategy, featuring an unveiling in the fall, followed by a delay in sales and limited availability.