Apple’s foldable gamble: iphone ultra delayed, price point skyrockets
apple is bracing for a bumpy rollout of its highly anticipated iPhone Ultra, slated for a September 8th unveiling, but potentially months behind schedule. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo’s latest projections paint a picture of constrained production and a premium price tag that could leave early adopters paying a hefty sum.
A bend in the road – and a long wait
Initially, whispers of a foldable iPhone surfaced in 2018. Now, nearly six years later, Cupertino is finally taking the plunge, though the reality is proving considerably more complex. Kuo’s data suggests a drastically reduced initial production run – between 0.5 and 1 million units – for the third quarter, translating to a maximum of 7 to 8 million manufactured throughout 2026. This stands in stark contrast to apple’s projected 20-22 million units for the iPhone 18 Pro, signaling a deliberate strategy of exclusivity from the outset.
The echoes of the iPhone X’s disastrous launch in 2017 are undeniably present. That initial hurdle – a severe manufacturing bottleneck – resulted in a significant delay, pushing the device’s availability beyond the iPhone 8’s debut. It’s a chilling reminder of apple’s exacting standards and the potential for complications when pushing technological boundaries. This isn’t simply a new design; it’s a fundamental shift in manufacturing processes, one that’s proving remarkably challenging to scale.
A premium problem
Beyond the production constraints, the anticipated price point – hovering between $2,300 and $2,500 – is fueling further concerns. Demand, as indicated by carrier and reseller conversations, remains robust, with estimates pointing to sales exceeding 26 million units by the end of 2026. However, this level of demand will inevitably lead to immediate sell-outs and, crucially, a surge in scalper activity. We’re talking potential markups of 50 to 100 percent, effectively pricing the device out of reach for the average consumer.
While apple’s projected market share for the foldable category – 28 percent in 2026 – is ambitious, it’s within striking distance of Samsung’s dominant 31%. But the initial supply scarcity and heightened resale prices will undoubtedly dampen the initial enthusiasm. The real test will come later in 2026, as the holiday rush subsides and genuine demand emerges. Until then, the iPhone Ultra’s success hinges on overcoming these monumental logistical hurdles.
Ultimately, apple is betting big on a foldable future, but the path to that future is paved with delays and inflated prices – a gamble that could test the patience of even the most ardent Apple fan.”n