The exact launch timings of the iPhone Ultra remain unclear as a new supply chain report says that Foxconn is making “final adjustments” to the manufacturing process. It follows an earlier report stating that mass production had begun.
Recent reports indicate that Apple will unveil the new folding iPhone at its September event, but that initial availability may be limited …
What we know for sure is that Apple set a high bar for quality control in production of its first ever folding iPhone. The company waited until its display partner Samsung was able to produce a creaseless inner display before proceeding with the project.
Those very exacting standards likely make this one of the more challenging Apple products launched to date, with consequent risks of delays to production. Beyond this, however, things are less clear.
Some earlier reports suggested that the iPhone Ultra launch might be very delayed, perhaps even into early next year. Subsequent reports pointed to a potential 1-2 month delay. Since then, however, the consensus view indicates that any delay in the upcoming premium model going on sale would be a short one.
Today’s DigiTimes report doesn’t really shed much light. The headline reads “Apple’s first foldable iPhone faces production hurdles,” but the text doesn’t reference any issues beyond mentioning what earlier reports have said. The only specific claim is that:
Foxconn is now carrying out “final mass-production adjustments” for the device
That could as easily indicate an entirely routine part of the process as a glitch that requires an adjustment with the potential for delayed production.
For now, then, the expectation remains an unveiling alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, going on sale shortly afterwards, though potentially with limited availability at first.
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Ben Lovejoy is a British technology writer and EU Editor for 9to5Mac. He’s known for his op-eds and diary pieces, exploring his experience of Apple products over time, for a more rounded review. He also writes fiction, with two technothriller novels, a couple of SF shorts and a rom-com!
