Apple is reportedly preparing a larger launch for its first foldable iPhone than previously expected. Nikkei Asia says the company has asked suppliers to get ready to produce roughly 10 million foldable iPhone Ultra units. Earlier forecasts for this model were closer to 7–8 million devices.
That volume suggests Apple expects solid demand, even with a price that is likely to be high. According to IDC estimates, the average price of the foldable iPhone Ultra could be around $2500, while versions with more storage may reportedly approach $3000. For comparison, that is well above the usual level even for Pro Max models, so the device will likely become the most expensive iPhone in the lineup.
Alongside the foldable model, Apple is also said to be planning around 70 million iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max units. In total, the second half of 2026 could see up to 80–85 million new iPhones, while the company’s annual order, according to the report, may reach 220 million devices. IDC, meanwhile, expects Apple’s 2026 shipments to approach 240 million iPhones.
Apple is also reportedly asking suppliers to reserve shared components and parts used in the iPhone 17 series for future premium iPhone 18 models. The move is being linked to component shortages and the company’s push to lock in supplies ahead of a major autumn launch.
The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and foldable iPhone Ultra are expected to be introduced in September. The Ultra may go on sale later than the Pro models, but still in 2026. The standard iPhone 18, according to rumors, will only arrive in spring, meaning the regular iPhone 17 could stay on the market for about 18 months instead of the usual yearly cycle.