Apple launches its new iPhone lineup every September. This year, the company is expected to release a foldable iPhone alongside its regular model updates. Earlier reports suggested the foldable might be delayed over technical issues. It now appears the launch remains on course for September 2026.
Engineering challenges
Apple has debuted new iPhone models in September since 2011. Analysts predicted months ago that the company would launch its first foldable this year, though Apple has offered no official confirmation.
Nikkei Asia reported earlier this week that the foldable iPhone might not be ready this fall. The delays reportedly stemmed from “engineering challenges” that needed more time to resolve. Apple’s shares fell as much as 5% following the report.
Back on track
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman pushed back on the Nikkei Asia claims soon after they surfaced. According to his reporting, Apple is still on track to launch the foldable at the same time as the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. A September release is back on the cards. Apple’s shares rallied after the Bloomberg report, though they were still down 2% at the time of writing.
What do we know about the foldable iPhone?
Apple rarely shares details about new iPhones before the official launch. A handful of rumor sites with solid track records have filled the gap.
Those sites say the foldable will be called the iPhone Ultra. The outer screen is expected to measure either 5.3 or 5.5 inches, giving users a standard smartphone form factor when folded shut.
Inside, a 7.6 or 7.8-inch folding display is rumored to feature a new hinge designed to prevent creasing. The price is likely to land between $2,000 and $2,500.
What we think
Apple is late to the folding phone party. Huawei and Samsung have been shipping foldables since 2019. That six-year head start means rivals have already worked through most of the early design headaches, particularly the screen crease problem that plagued first-generation models.
The iPhone Ultra will be positioned as a flagship product with a flagship price, so Apple can’t afford any technical missteps. The stock took a hit over delay fears for a reason. Reassurances that everything is on track could be bravado meant to calm the market. Now the company has to deliver in September.
Availability
Apple’s foldable iPhone should be launched in September 2026.
