Apple is reportedly increasing its manufacturing plans for the company’s first foldable smartphone, widely expected to launch as the iPhone Ultra. According to sources cited by Nikkei Asia and 9to5Mac, the tech giant has asked suppliers to prepare for the production of nearly 10 million units of the foldable device—up from earlier estimates of 7–8 million. This ramp-up signals stronger-than-expected confidence in demand for the premium product.
In addition to the foldable model, Apple plans to manufacture over 70 million units of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, bringing total premium iPhone production to roughly 80 million units in the second half of 2026. The company’s overall iPhone production target for the year is reportedly around 220 million units, with IDC estimating it could reach 240 million. Apple has also instructed suppliers to stockpile certain components for the iPhone 18 Pro models.
The foldable iPhone Ultra is expected to be the most expensive iPhone ever, with IDC pegging its base price at approximately $2,500 (around ₹2.38 lakh). Versions with higher storage capacity could cost up to $3,000. Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the foldable iPhone Ultra at its traditional September 2026 launch event, though the foldable model may ship later due to its complex manufacturing process. Reports also suggest the standard iPhone 18 could be delayed until spring 2027.