iPhone Ultra: Mass production underway, no delays expected

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Shortly before the expected fall launch, signs are mounting that Apple's first foldable iPhone is on schedule. Several supplier reports consistently indicate that mass production has already begun – and that the September launch date is still on track. The recent rumors of delays have suddenly disappeared.

For months, news surrounding the iPhone Ultra's release schedule has fluctuated between optimism and warnings of delays. Rumors about the design, features, and price of the foldable flagship model have long since solidified into a fairly concrete picture; the main remaining question was when Apple would actually unveil and ship the device. Now, several reports from the supply chain are providing new clues: the design is finalized, and mass production has begun.

What the supply chain reports say

The Chinese financial publication Cailian Press was the first to report on this, citing several people from Apple's supply chain. According to these sources, the device's design was frozen some time ago, and mass production is now underway. When asked about potential delays due to the complex assembly process and low yields, the sources stated they were unaware of any delays – September remains the target date.

This is supported by further reports: The Chinese portal East Money and the Korean trade publication The Bell also report on the start of mass production. As an additional indication, it is reported that contract manufacturer Foxconn is hiring a large number of staff to ensure the necessary capacity.

Presentation confirmed, sales launch controversial

Despite the optimistic outlook, one point remains unclear – and it's crucial for potential buyers. The unveiling and sales launch don't necessarily coincide. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo anticipates that Apple will present the iPhone Ultra in September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models, but might not actually begin selling it until the fourth quarter – that is, from October onwards.

Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman had also recently taken an ambiguous stance: In March, he still expected a later sales launch than for the Pro models, but revised his opinion a month later, placing the foldable device back on track for a September release – either simultaneously or with only a slight delay. An earlier report had already predicted mass production would be pushed back from July to August, narrowing the window of opportunity before sales. The latest reports now suggest that at least the start of production hasn't been pushed back any further.

10 million units – but a tight start

Another sign of Apple's ambitions: The company is said to have instructed its suppliers to prepare around 10 million foldable iPhones this year – significantly more than the 7 to 8 million that were rumored just a few months ago. This suggests confidence in demand.

Whether this quantity will be available at launch is another question. Experience shows that the initial batch of a completely new, complex-to-manufacture device is typically small. Long delivery times and configurations selling out quickly at launch are therefore likely – anyone wanting to get their hands on one at launch will probably have to act fast.

What the foldable iPhone is supposed to offer

Over the months, a fairly clear picture of the specifications has emerged. A roughly 7.8-inch internal display, a 5.5-inch external screen, the A20 chip, Apple's own C2 modem in some countries, and a power button with integrated Touch ID are expected. The price is rumored to be between $2,000 and $2,500.

This would make the iPhone Ultra by far the most expensive iPhone ever – a price that would likely be well over €2,000 in Germany. It would therefore not be a device for the masses, but a premium statement in a class of its own.

The decision will be made in the fall

Putting the reports together paints a cautiously optimistic picture: Mass production appears to be underway, the September launch date seems set, and Apple is planning for significantly higher production volumes than previously anticipated. The last unknown factor remains the exact sales launch date – and the question of how many devices will actually be available initially. Final clarity is unlikely until Apple itself takes the stage this fall. (Image: Shutterstock / mariakray)