Apple has reportedly increased production plans for its first foldable iPhone, asking suppliers to prepare for approximately 10 million units ahead of the device’s expected debut later this year.
According to Nikkei Asia, the new production target is up from an earlier estimate of 7 to 8 million units, suggesting Apple expects stronger demand for the rumored foldable iPhone Ultra than previously anticipated.
Apple ramps up production for its 2026 iPhone lineup
The report also claims Apple has ordered approximately 70 million units of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
Combined with the foldable iPhone, Apple is expected to produce around 80 million new iPhones scheduled to launch during the second half of 2026.
Overall, Apple’s total iPhone production target for 2026 is reportedly around 220 million units. IDC recently estimated the company could ship nearly 240 million iPhones throughout the year.
Nikkei Asia also reports that Apple has asked some suppliers to prepare components for as many as 85 million new iPhones in the second half of 2026.
To help secure supply during the ongoing component shortage, Apple has reportedly instructed suppliers to reserve common components used in the iPhone 17 lineup for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models.
Foldable iPhone Ultra could cost up to $3,000
Apple’s first foldable iPhone is expected to carry a premium price tag.
IDC recently estimated the foldable iPhone Ultra could have an average selling price of around $2,500, while higher storage configurations could reach as much as $3,000.
Current rumors suggest Apple will unveil the foldable iPhone Ultra alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max this September. Although the foldable model may ship slightly later than the Pro models, it is still expected to arrive before the end of the year.
The report also reiterates Apple’s rumored plan to split its iPhone launch schedule.
Instead of replacing the standard iPhone 17 during the traditional fall launch event, Apple is expected to introduce the standard iPhone 18 in the spring, extending the iPhone 17’s time on the market to approximately 18 months.
The next-generation iPhone Air is also rumored to move to the same spring launch window.
If the reports prove accurate, Apple’s first foldable iPhone could become one of the company’s largest and most ambitious product launches in years, reflecting growing confidence in the foldable smartphone market.
Would you consider buying Apple’s foldable iPhone Ultra if it starts at around $2,500? Let us know in the comments below.
