Apple has significantly increased its production expectations for its first foldable iPhone, according to a new report from Nikkei Asia. The company has told suppliers to prepare for manufacturing roughly 10 million units of the foldable iPhone Ultra in 2026, up from an earlier forecast of 7 million to 8 million units just a few months ago. This 25-30% increase signals growing confidence in the device's demand and Apple's willingness to take a bold step into the foldable smartphone market, which has been dominated by Samsung, Huawei, and other Android manufacturers for years.
The foldable iPhone Ultra is expected to be Apple's highest-priced iPhone ever, with an average selling price estimated at around $2500, according to IDC. Storage options could push the price as high as $3000. This premium pricing places the device in direct competition with high-end foldables like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series and the Huawei Mate X series, but Apple's loyal customer base and ecosystem integration may justify the cost for many users.
The report also provides details about Apple's broader 2026 iPhone lineup. Alongside the foldable iPhone Ultra, Apple is expected to introduce the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, with combined orders of approximately 70 million units for those two models. Including the foldable, Apple's total orders for new iPhone models launching in the second half of 2026 reach about 80 million units. When adding ongoing production of other models, the total for the year could hit 220 million units, slightly below IDC's forecast of 240 million iPhone shipments in 2026.
Apple has reportedly given some suppliers a forecast of up to 85 million new iPhones for the second half of 2026. The company is also asking suppliers to reserve certain common components and parts used in the iPhone 17 series for the upcoming iPhone 18 premium series, indicating aggressive efforts to secure components amid ongoing global shortages. This move suggests Apple is preparing for strong demand and wants to avoid the supply constraints that have plagued previous launches.
Apple's first foldable iPhone is expected to feature a book-style design, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold, with a large internal display and a smaller external screen. The device is rumored to use a durable, ultra-thin glass cover and a custom hinge mechanism designed to minimize crease visibility. The foldable iPhone Ultra is also expected to support Apple Pencil and offer enhanced multitasking capabilities, leveraging the larger screen real estate.
The foldable market has seen steady growth over the past few years. According to Counterpoint Research, global foldable smartphone shipments grew by 45% in 2025, reaching over 40 million units. Samsung holds the largest market share, followed by Huawei and other Chinese brands like Oppo and Vivo. Apple's entry into the foldable segment is widely seen as a validation of the form factor and could accelerate mainstream adoption. Analysts predict that if Apple can deliver a compelling foldable experience with top-tier performance, ecosystem integration, and Apple's signature build quality, it could capture a significant share of the premium market.
In addition to the foldable, Apple's iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to feature incremental improvements over their predecessors. Rumors suggest the iPhone 18 Pro will include an upgraded camera system with a periscope telephoto lens for improved optical zoom, a faster A19 chip built on a 2-nanometer process, and possibly a wrap-around display. The iPhone 18 Pro Max may offer even larger screen sizes and enhanced battery life. Both models are likely to run iOS 20, which is expected to introduce new AI-powered features and deeper integration with Apple's growing services ecosystem.
The timing of the foldable iPhone Ultra launch is still unclear. The report states that Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and foldable iPhone Ultra in September 2026. However, the foldable iPhone could launch after the iPhone 18 Pro models, although it is still expected to arrive within the year. This staggered release strategy could help Apple manage supply and demand, as well as keep the product in the headlines for an extended period.
Meanwhile, Apple is not expected to replace the standard iPhone 17 with the iPhone 18 until spring 2027. This would extend the life of the iPhone 17 on the market from the typical 12-month run to around 18 months. Apple is similarly expected to upgrade the iPhone Air, introduced in September 2025, with a new model in spring 2026. This shift suggests Apple is moving toward a more flexible release schedule, potentially aligning with specific market conditions or component availability.
The decision to produce 10 million foldable iPhones is a significant bet for Apple. To put that number into perspective, Samsung's total foldable shipments in 2025 were estimated at around 15 million units across all its models. Apple is essentially aiming to take a third of Samsung's foldable market share in its first year. Achieving that goal will depend on pricing, carrier subsidies, and consumer willingness to pay a premium for a foldable iPhone. The $2500 price point is substantially higher than Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6, which starts at $1,800, but Apple has historically had success with premium pricing due to its brand strength and ecosystem lock-in.
Industry analysts have mixed views on the foldable iPhone's potential. Some believe that Apple's entry will revitalize the foldable market and drive innovation, while others caution that the high price may limit adoption to early adopters and tech enthusiasts. However, with 10 million units ordered, Apple clearly expects broad appeal. The company may also be planning to expand the foldable lineup in future years with lower-priced models, similar to its strategy with the iPhone SE.
Apple's supply chain is already gearing up for production. Key suppliers include Samsung Display and LG Display for the foldable OLED panels, along with Foxconn and Pegatron for assembly. The hinge mechanism is reportedly being supplied by a Taiwanese manufacturer, with Apple insisting on a design that can withstand 200,000 folds without degradation. This is in line with industry standards but reflects Apple's attention to durability. The company is also reportedly working on a custom titanium alloy frame to keep the device lightweight yet strong.
Software is another critical element. Apple is expected to optimize iOS 20 for the foldable form factor, with features like split-screen multitasking, a resizable app layout, and a new "desktop mode" when the device is connected to an external display. Developers will be encouraged to update their apps to take advantage of the larger screen, similar to the transition from the iPhone to the iPad. Apple's tight control over the software ecosystem could give it an advantage over Android foldables, where app optimization has been inconsistent.
The foldable iPhone Ultra may also include exclusive capabilities such as enhanced AR and VR features, leveraging the larger display for immersive experiences. There are rumors that Apple is developing a dedicated AR headset, but the foldable iPhone could serve as a bridge device until that product matures. Additionally, the foldable iPhone could support Apple's ProRes video recording and advanced photo editing tools, appealing to professional users who need a portable powerhouse.
As for the broader impact, Apple's move into foldables could pressure competitors to innovate faster. Samsung has already announced plans to release a more affordable foldable in 2026, and Chinese brands are introducing new form factors like rollable and tri-fold devices. The competition will likely intensify, but Apple's extensive resources and loyal customer base give it a strong position. If the foldable iPhone Ultra succeeds, it could define a new category for Apple and drive growth for years to come.
In summary, Apple's reported order of 10 million foldable iPhone Ultra models at a $2500 price point represents a major strategic shift for the company. With a launch expected in the second half of 2026, the foldable iPhone Ultra will compete directly with established players in a growing market. Combined with the iPhone 18 Pro series and other models, Apple is positioning itself for a record-breaking year. However, the ultimate success will depend on execution, pricing, and consumer adoption. The next few months will reveal more details as Apple finalizes its designs and supply chain readiness.
Source: 9to5Mac News