Apple has significantly increased its production targets for the upcoming foldable iPhone, signaling growing confidence in the device's market potential. According to reports, the tech giant has instructed its supply chain partners to prepare for the manufacturing of approximately 10 million units of its first foldable smartphone—a notable increase from earlier estimates of 7 to 8 million units .
The highly anticipated device, expected to be called the iPhone Ultra, is rumored to feature a book-style design with a 5.5-inch cover display that unfolds to a roughly 7.8-inch inner screen . Apple has reportedly resolved long-standing engineering challenges related to hinge durability, a key obstacle that had delayed its entry into the foldable market . The device is expected to incorporate a titanium chassis, a liquid metal hinge mechanism, and a custom A20 Pro chip built on TSMC's 2-nanometer process .
Premium pricing expected
Market analysts project the foldable iPhone will carry a premium price tag, with IDC estimating an average selling price of approximately $2,500. Higher storage configurations could reach up to $3,000, which would make it the most expensive iPhone in Apple's history .
Broader iPhone lineup expansion
The foldable device is expected to debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September, according to supply chain sources . Apple has reportedly secured components for approximately 80 million premium smartphones for the second half of 2026, with total iPhone production projected to exceed 220 million units for the year . Some suppliers have been told to prepare for orders of up to 85 million devices, with Apple asking them to reserve components initially intended for the iPhone 17 lineup to support the upcoming iPhone 18 series amid industrywide component shortages .
In a departure from its traditional launch schedule, Apple is also reportedly planning to introduce the standard iPhone 18, an iPhone Air 2, and an affordable model in spring 2027, bringing the total number of new iPhone models through early 2027 to at least five .
Why this matters
The foldable iPhone represents Apple's most significant hardware gamble since the introduction of the Apple Watch, marking its entry into a segment dominated by Samsung and other Android manufacturers. With foldable smartphone shipments expected to exceed 50 million units globally in 2026 according to industry estimates, Apple's ability to solve the persistent display crease issue and deliver a seamless user experience at a $2,500 price point will determine whether it can capture meaningful market share. The aggressive production target also suggests Apple views foldable devices as a key growth driver in an otherwise mature smartphone market, potentially reshaping the premium segment.
