The foldable iPhone Ultra may let down numerous enthusiastic customers.
iPhone Ultra supply issues may cause delays for several countries
Apple's anticipated foldable iPhone is nearing its expected debut in September, but a new report indicates that purchasing one could be more challenging than initially thought.
ChannelNews Australia reports that Apple might introduce the rumored iPhone Ultra this fall but will have a very limited retail rollout at first. The supply, pricing, and production testing challenges may lead to the United States receiving the first batch, while other markets like Australia could face delays of several months.
How restricted might the iPhone Ultra's launch be?
According to ChannelNews, Australian carriers and a significant retailer do not expect the foldable iPhone to be available in local stores when the rest of the iPhone 18 Pro lineup is released. Instead, the initial stocks may first reach the U.S., followed by major markets like China.
Previous predictions suggest that supply will be constrained. Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo mentioned that Apple could produce approximately 7 million to 8 million foldable iPhones in the latter half of 2026, with only around 0.5 million to 1 million units projected to be prepared in the third quarter. This represents a very small launch volume for a first-generation iPhone that is anticipated to generate significant interest.
Apple is also facing another supply challenge
The ongoing DRAM shortage has reportedly impacted the production of the A20 Pro chip intended for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Apple has started testing DRAM from Chinese supplier CXMT to find additional memory resources. If these reports are correct, the company may face shortages affecting both its standard Pro models and its most ambitious new iPhone.
The iPhone Ultra is expected to cost over $2,000, so its availability was never going to match that of a typical iPhone. However, a rollout focused on the U.S. followed by months of waiting for other markets would considerably frustrate buyers who have been eager for years to see Apple enter the foldable segment.
That said, the short and wide Galaxy Z Fold 8 has already demonstrated the appeal of this foldable design. If the iPhone Ultra adopts a similar form factor, Apple might have a hit on its hands if it can resolve the remaining production challenges.
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The foldable iPhone Ultra may let down numerous enthusiastic customers.
Apple is facing supply issues that may restrict its foldable iPhone to an initial launch in the U.S., with other regions potentially experiencing months of delays.
