Apple has reportedly placed orders with suppliers for approximately 10 million units of its first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Ultra, according to a report from Nikkei Asia. This marks a significant increase from earlier production forecasts, which had ranged between 7 million and 8 million units just a few months ago. The move signals Apple's confidence in the foldable form factor, a market segment that has been dominated by Samsung and other Android manufacturers for years.
The foldable iPhone Ultra is expected to carry a premium price tag, with industry analysts at IDC predicting an average selling price of around $2,500. Storage upgrades could push the price as high as $3,000, placing the device in direct competition with luxury smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series and the newly released Google Pixel Fold 2. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that Apple has asked suppliers to reserve components and parts, particularly those used in the iPhone 17 series, to ensure a smooth launch for the iPhone 18 premium lineup.
Beyond the foldable, Apple is also preparing to launch the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in the second half of 2026. These devices are expected to account for an additional 70 million units in orders. Combined with the foldable iPhone Ultra, Apple's total orders for new iPhones in the second half of 2026 could reach 85 million units, according to supplier forecasts. This would bring Apple's total iPhone orders for the full year to approximately 220 million units, aligning with IDC's projection of nearly 240 million iPhone shipments for 2026.
The foldable iPhone Ultra is rumored to feature a 7.6-inch inner display when unfolded, along with a 5.4-inch cover display, similar to competing foldable devices. Apple is said to be using a custom hinge design that minimizes the crease, a common issue with foldable screens. The device is expected to run a variant of iOS 20 optimized for large-screen multitasking, possibly including a new Split View and drag-and-drop capabilities. The display is likely to be supplied by Samsung Display, which has been a longtime partner for Apple's OLED panels.
Apple's entry into the foldable market comes at a time when the overall smartphone industry is seeing slower growth. By offering a high-priced, innovative product, Apple aims to capture the premium segment and boost average revenue per user. The foldable iPhone Ultra is also expected to appeal to professionals and early adopters who value portability and productivity. However, the high price may limit initial sales, which is why Apple's production target of 10 million units is relatively modest compared to the company's overall iPhone output of over 200 million units per year.
In addition to the foldable, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to bring incremental upgrades over the iPhone 17 Pro series. Rumors suggest a new A19 Bionic chip, an improved camera system with a periscope telephoto lens, and possibly a 120Hz ProMotion display for the standard Pro model. The Pro Max may feature a larger 6.9-inch display, continuing the trend of increasing screen sizes. Apple is also expected to introduce a new titanium frame finish and enhanced water resistance.
The report also mentions that Apple will not replace the standard iPhone 17 with the iPhone 18 until spring 2026, extending the life of the iPhone 17 to about 18 months on the market. This is part of Apple's strategy to stagger its releases and manage inventory more efficiently. Similarly, the iPhone Air, introduced in September 2025, will receive an update in spring 2026. This shift towards a two-year refresh cycle for non-pro models could become a new standard for Apple.
Apple's aggressive component sourcing, as noted in the report, is driven by ongoing shortages in the semiconductor industry. By securing components early, Apple aims to avoid the supply chain disruptions that have affected other smartphone makers. The company has also been investing in in-house chip design to reduce reliance on external suppliers like Qualcomm and Broadcom. The A19 and A19 Pro chips for the iPhone 18 series are expected to be manufactured on a 3nm+ process, offering better performance and efficiency.
Looking ahead, the foldable iPhone Ultra represents a pivotal moment for Apple. If successful, it could open up a new product category and drive further innovation in the smartphone market. However, the device must overcome challenges such as durability and software optimization. Apple's history of polished user experiences suggests that the foldable iPhone will be well-tested before release. The company is expected to unveil all three new iPhones at a special event in September 2026, though the foldable may ship slightly later in the year.
Overall, the news of Apple ordering 10 million foldable iPhone Ultra units is a strong signal that the company is serious about the foldable segment. With a premium price and advanced features, the iPhone Ultra could redefine what consumers expect from a smartphone. As the launch approaches, more details will emerge, but for now, Apple's suppliers are ramping up production to meet the increased demand.
Source:9to5Mac News