iPhone Ultra Launch on Track! New Report Suggests Apple’s Foldable iPhone Will Arrive in September

Apple's first foldable iPhone could arrive sooner than some reports previously suggested. According to a new supply chain report, the company has already begun receiving components for the device, indicating that development remains on schedule for a September 2026 unveiling.

Component Shipments Underway

The report, citing a source at an Apple supplier, claims that component deliveries for the foldable iPhone have recently started in small batches. The supplier reportedly received guidance pointing to a September 2026 launch window, with the device expected to debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.

A second supply chain source cited in the report also said there has been no indication of a delay and that preparations continue for a fall 2026 release. The latest information backs recent claims from a Chinese tipster who dismissed rumors of a postponed launch.

Durability Concerns Still Being Discussed

Recent reports have suggested Apple could be facing engineering challenges as development enters its final stages. In May, tipster Instant Digital claimed the company was still working to address durability concerns surrounding the foldable iPhone's hinge mechanism.

While Apple is said to have largely solved display crease issues, the hinge reportedly remains under scrutiny to meet the company's strict reliability standards. However, unresolved issues at this stage would be unusual given the expected launch timeline.

Earlier Reports Pointed to a Delay

Not all reports have agreed on the device's release schedule. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman previously suggested the foldable iPhone might not launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series. Barclays analyst Tim Long also predicted that shipments could begin in December 2026.

Even if commercial availability is delayed, Apple could still unveil the foldable iPhone during its September event, similar to how it introduced the iPhone X in September 2017 before releasing it later that year.

iPhone Ultra: Expected Specifications

Apple's first foldable is expected to feature a book-style design with a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch cover screen. The device is rumored to be powered by the A20 chip and C2 modem, while using a Touch ID-equipped power button instead of Face ID.

Other expected features include a dual rear camera setup and a price tag of around $2,000. Reports also suggest the device could be marketed as the "iPhone Ultra."

Separately, Apple is rumored to be planning a split-launch strategy for the iPhone 18 series, with the standard iPhone 18 models potentially arriving in spring 2027.