Apple raises foldable iPhone production target to 10M units

Apple ↗ 0.91% is preparing one of its most ambitious iPhone launches in years, planning to release at least five new models between the second half of 2026 and the first half of 2027, while raising production targets for its first foldable device, according to a report from Nikkei Asia published on July 1.nikkei+2

Foldable iPhone Gets Production Boost

The company has instructed suppliers to prepare to produce approximately 10 million foldable iPhones this year, up from a previous forecast of 7 to 8 million units several months ago, sources familiar with the matter told Nikkei Asia. The increase reflects Apple's growing confidence in consumer demand for the device, widely expected to be called the iPhone Ultra.instagram+1

The production bump aligns with earlier analyst projections. Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported in late 2025 that Apple had revised its foldable manufacturing targets upward to between 8 and 10 million units for 2026. Some reports, however, suggest initial production runs may be more conservative, with Samsung Display's initial OLED panel order set at around 3 million units.forbes+1

September Launch Alongside iPhone 18 Pro

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has indicated that the most likely debut date for the new iPhones is September 8 or 9, 2026. The fall event is expected to feature the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the foldable iPhone Ultra.9To5Mac+1

The foldable device is expected to feature a 7.8-inch inner display, a 5.5-inch cover screen, Apple's 2nm A20 chip, a C2 modem, Touch ID instead of Face ID, and two rear cameras. Pricing is expected to start at around $2,000 or higher, according to Gurman.MacRumors.com+2

Mass production of the foldable is reportedly set to begin at the end of July, according to The Elec, though some supply chain signals suggest shipping could be staggered into late 2026 or early 2027.News24 English+1

Split Launch Strategy

Apple's broader lineup marks a departure from its traditional release cadence. The base iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and a possible iPhone Air 2 are expected to follow in early 2027, splitting the product cycle into two distinct waves. This approach comes as Apple looks to gain market share amid what Nikkei Asia described as an industrywide memory component supply crunch.9To5Mac+3