Foldable iPhone faces potential delay before its public unveiling

It’s all but confirmed that Apple will announce its debut foldable iPhone soon. But precisely when, and what its launch will look like, remains a mystery. Recent reports suggest that Apple will reveal the foldable iPhone, dubbed the ‘iPhone Ultra’ by some, during its traditional September showcase. However, supply chain challenges could mean either limited availability at launch or a delayed launch entirely.

Earlier in the year, Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman refuted claims that the foldable iPhone would miss Apple’s September launch window. His more recent reporting doubled down on Apple showing off its first foldable handset next month.

However, retail availability could be a separate issue. Several reports, including those from prominent tech leakers, suggest that the foldable iPhone will be in limited supply at launch. There’s also talk of a staggered rollout, where some regions, including Australia, might only receive stock months after a US launch. If correct, it would follow Apple’s approach with the Vision Pro headset, where it launched locally half a year later.

First look at the iPhone Fold dummy unit. It doesn't look like Apple will offer multiple colors, with white currently appearing to be the only option. What do you think? pic.twitter.com/olMzm6t6Ts

— Sonny Dickson (@SonnyDickson) June 7, 2026

Previously leaked dummy models point to a passport-shaped foldable iPhone, similar in size and form factor to the recently launched Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8. Price remains a point of contention. Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro range is already expected to cost more than last year’s model, as hinted at by outgoing CEO Tim Cook. Current foldables already cost up to $3,299 (the asking price of the Oppo Find N6) in Australia, so a similar price isn’t out of the question.

As reported as early as last year, this September will likely only see the announcements of Apple’s ‘Pro’ range of devices. The company is expected to announce the iPhone 18 Pro range, in addition to the foldable, while the base iPhone 18 reportedly won’t launch until 2027.

With September just around the corner, Apple is set to put an end to the rampant speculation, once and for all.

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