Multiple reports had earlier suggested that the iPhone Ultra (or iPhone Fold) launch could be delayed until later in the year or even early 2027.

However, supply chain sources have now backed more recent reports that Apple’s most expensive ever iPhone will be launched in September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro …

Earlier reports of delays

It was initially assumed that the iPhone Ultra would be launched with the iPhone 18 Pro. However, a Barclays investor note back in March suggested that the launch would actually be pushed back into December.

A subsequent Nikkei Asia report added its own take when it reported that engineering problems could further delay the launch. That suggested it could even be put back into early 2027.

This wouldn’t be unprecedented: the iPhone X, iPhone XR, and the iPhone 14 Plus all went on sale later in the year than the traditional September timings.

More recent reports say little to no delay

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman backed reports of a later launch date, but implied that the new top-tier model wouldn’t follow too long behind the iPhone 18 Pro. He used the phrase “a little bit delayed,” seemingly suggesting that an October launch was more likely than a December one.

Leaker Fixed Focus Digital previously said that the most likely scenario is a simultaneous launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, but that any delay would be one month at most. They recently doubled-down on this, describing as “fake” reported delays.

Suppliers expect a September launch

DigiTimes cites a Chinese publication reporting that companies in Apple’s supply chain for the new device, still expect it to be launched in September.

According to China Securities Journal, citing a source at an Apple supplier, the company recently started delivering components in small batches for Apple’s first foldable iPhone. The supplier reportedly received guidance indicating that the device is scheduled to be unveiled in September […] A second supply-chain source, separately cited in the report, said it had received no indication of a delay

9to5Mac’s Take

It’s looking extremely likely that Apple will officially announce the folding iPhone in September, and that it will either go on sale alongside the iPhone 18 Pro or no more than a month later.

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