Apple is expected to expand its smartphone portfolio in 2026 with the introduction of the iPhone Ultra, the company’s first-ever foldable device. According to reports, the new lineup will be split across two different release windows, with high-end models arriving in late 2026 and standard models following in early 2027.
Split Release Strategy and Timeline
The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, along with the foldable iPhone Ultra, are widely expected to debut in September 2026. Bloomberg analyst Mark Gurman has stated that the most likely date for this debut is Sept. 8, with Sept. 9 as the runner-up. Other analysts suggest Sept. 9 is the most probable date based on historical patterns where Labor Day fell on September 7. In such a scenario, pre-orders could begin on Saturday, September 12, with a release date of Friday, September 18.
In a shift from previous strategies, the standard iPhone 18, the iPhone 18e, and a new “iPhone Air” are reportedly scheduled for release in early 2027, with some reports specifically suggesting a launch in March 2027.
The iPhone Ultra Foldable
The iPhone Ultra marks Apple’s entry into the foldable market. Unlike the skinnier design of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold line, rumors suggest the Ultra will feature a significantly wider chassis, similar to the original Pixel Fold. The device is expected to be 4.5 to 4.8mm thick when unfolded and approximately 9 to 9.5mm when closed.
Technical specifications for the Ultra include:
- Biometrics: Touch ID via a fingerprint sensor in the lock button, as Face ID is not expected to be included.
- Hardware: A novel 3D-printed hinge and two rear cameras featuring wide and ultra-wide lenses.
- Display: A new technology designed to reduce the screen crease, though not eliminate it entirely.
While production is ramping up—with Nikkei reporting that Apple told suppliers to prepare for 10 million units, up from 8 million—the official on-sale date may be delayed until late 2026 or early 2027 due to the device’s complexity and a global RAM shortage.
Pro Model Upgrades and Specifications
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to feature several hardware refinements. These include a 2nm A20 Pro processor, bigger batteries, and improved wireless connectivity. Camera upgrades may include a variable aperture for the main camera and a reduced camera bump for a cleaner appearance.
Display sizes are expected to remain similar to previous years, with the Pro models likely featuring 6.3-inch screens and the Pro Max retaining a 6.9-inch display. However, leaker Instant Digital indicated that Apple’s brightness demands are unusually high this year, suggesting much brighter displays across the series. The Pro models are also expected to feature a smaller Dynamic Island.
For the Pro models, possible color options include silver, light blue, dark gray, and dark cherry. The devices will also launch with iOS 27 and a Siri AI beta.
Pricing and Market Pressures
Price increases are anticipated across the iPhone 18 lineup. Rising costs for memory and components, driven by the expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure, are placing pressure on supplies. Apple leadership has acknowledged that these higher production costs may result in more expensive devices.
The iPhone 18 Pro is estimated to start at $1,299, which is approximately $200 more than the previous year’s model. This would make the Pro series Apple’s most expensive mainstream smartphone lineup to date.
