Apple’s foldable iPhone may have limited production and delay sales in 2026

Beatriz

em July 7, 2026

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Many interested in Apple’s long-awaited “Ultra” iPhone, which promises to be the technology giant’s first foldable model, may face difficulties in purchasing the device at launch. A recent survey by market analyst Ming-Chi Kuo points out that, despite high expectations, initial production will be quite restricted, with estimates between 500,000 and one million units made available shortly after the debut in the third quarter of 2026.

After the initial sales period, Apple is expected to intensify production, aiming to deliver around seven to eight million units by the end of 2026. Kuo explains that the slow pace of manufacturing in the first few months stems from the complexity of the iPhone Ultra’s innovative foldable design, which poses significant challenges in the production process. This situation mirrors the scenario experienced with the iPhone X, which also faced a gradual start to production due to technological advances, such as the edge-to-edge OLED screen, the notch and the TrueDepth camera for FaceID. Historically, Apple has used this initial scarcity strategy to amplify the desire and perception of exclusivity in its premium products, transforming the launch into a more talked-about event and valuing resale in the short term.

Despite the estimated price of up to US$2,500, demand for the foldable smartphone will remain high throughout 2026, according to Kuo’s indications from conversations with operators, sales channels and resellers. The analyst anticipates that the device should sell out quickly after pre-sales open, with delivery times that could extend up to six weeks or more, lasting until December. A small initial supply, an easily recognizable design, and an innovative user experience are all factors that should support a temporary resale premium.

Importantly, Kuo’s report should be taken with a grain of salt, given that Apple has yet to officially confirm the existence of its long-speculated foldable phone, the name of which has also not been disclosed. However, the recent release of the iOS 27 beta adds credence to the rumors, as the operating system includes terms such as “foldState” and “angleDegrees”, as well as a variable that indicates the total number of screens integrated on the host device.

On the same topic: Apple: Foldable iPhone details leak ahead of expected launch

The name “iPhone Ultra”, also known as iPhone Fold, is just a suggestion and may be changed until launch. Projections point to a device with a 5.5-inch external screen and a 7.8-inch internal screen, dimensions slightly smaller than the 8.3 inches of the iPad mini. The expectation is that when folded, the device will be more square compared to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7, resulting in a considerably greater width when unfolded. It is expected to incorporate a flexible OLED display with a laser-perforated metal backplate to distribute stress and feature a barely noticeable bend.