Apple is preparing to launch its first foldable iPhone, the Ultra, in the fall.
The Ultra is expected to be announced alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models in September, but it will likely not reach stores until a later date.
While the Pro models are already in mass production, the Ultra remains in production testing and is not slated for a September release.
Apple may follow the 2017 iPhone X launch pattern, announcing the device in September and shipping it weeks or months afterward.
Mass production of the foldable device is anticipated to begin in late July, after the hinge mechanism was reportedly resolved.
The Ultra will occupy a premium tier above the Pro Max, with higher component costs stemming from its foldable display and hinge.
Projected prices for the Ultra could reach $2,500, compared to $1,999 for the highest‑end Pro Max configuration.
Apple has previously used Ultra branding to create a higher‑priced product line, as seen with the Apple Watch Ultra.
Prices for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max may increase by at least $100 due to higher RAM and storage costs.
The base iPhone 18 and the second generation of the Air model are not scheduled for release in September; they are expected to debut in early 2027.
An additional model, the iPhone 18e, is also anticipated for a 2027 launch.
Apple’s phased launch approach aims to elevate average selling prices and spotlight the Ultra as a significant hardware shift.
The iOS 27 beta contains features that indicate preparation for foldable devices, including multitasking and hinge‑angle behaviors.
While the exact release date and pricing remain uncertain, the Ultra is poised to debut later this year as Apple’s most expensive and distinctive iPhone yet.
