Apple’s foldable iPhone may not launch in India; Likely to be a US-only launch amid supply crunch
Apple is reported to delay the actual sale of the iPhone Ultra in some countries amid a supply crunch. Here's what we know about the foldable so far.
- Aug 14, 2026,
- Updated Aug 14, 2026 4:58 PM IST
In September 2026, Apple is expected to launch its first-ever foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 series. However, the foldable may skip a global release, and it could be market-specific. As per a ChannelNews Australia report, Apple may keep the iPhone Ultra exclusive to the US market. While there is no confirmation, it is anticipated that the possible reasons could be limited supply and concerns about the phone’s high price.
Must read: Apple iPhone Ultra vs Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold: Features, display, camera and specs compared
iPhone Ultra may skip India launch
Apple is reported to delay the actual sale of iPhone Ultra in some countries. While the global announcement could go live in September, its availability could come several months later. The report also cited a Chinese component supplier who said Apple may not have enough units initially, and that the foldable is yet to be tested or certified in certain markets. In addition, the device is expected to be expensive, which could affect Apple's launch strategy.
Initially, the iPhone Ultra supply may remain limited to the US market, with other major markets such as China receiving the device later. While the market availability is yet to be confirmed, it was previously reported that the foldable iPhone could be produced in very limited quantities during launch.
Alongside iPhone Ultra, iPhone 18 Pro models are also said to face supply challenges, resulting in limited availability at launch and potentially longer waiting times for customers in some markets.
iPhone Ultra launch
Apple is expected to host the launch event on September 9, 2026. It is said to be a physical event, with new CEO John Ternus taking the stage to announce the new iPhone 18 Pro models and the first-ever iPhone Ultra. As the timeline nears, we can expect the launch announcement any day now, although Apple has yet to officially confirm the event date or the products expected to be unveiled.
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In September 2026, Apple is expected to launch its first-ever foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 series. However, the foldable may skip a global release, and it could be market-specific. As per a ChannelNews Australia report, Apple may keep the iPhone Ultra exclusive to the US market. While there is no confirmation, it is anticipated that the possible reasons could be limited supply and concerns about the phone’s high price.
Must read: Apple iPhone Ultra vs Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold: Features, display, camera and specs compared
iPhone Ultra may skip India launch
Apple is reported to delay the actual sale of iPhone Ultra in some countries. While the global announcement could go live in September, its availability could come several months later. The report also cited a Chinese component supplier who said Apple may not have enough units initially, and that the foldable is yet to be tested or certified in certain markets. In addition, the device is expected to be expensive, which could affect Apple's launch strategy.
Initially, the iPhone Ultra supply may remain limited to the US market, with other major markets such as China receiving the device later. While the market availability is yet to be confirmed, it was previously reported that the foldable iPhone could be produced in very limited quantities during launch.
Alongside iPhone Ultra, iPhone 18 Pro models are also said to face supply challenges, resulting in limited availability at launch and potentially longer waiting times for customers in some markets.
iPhone Ultra launch
Apple is expected to host the launch event on September 9, 2026. It is said to be a physical event, with new CEO John Ternus taking the stage to announce the new iPhone 18 Pro models and the first-ever iPhone Ultra. As the timeline nears, we can expect the launch announcement any day now, although Apple has yet to officially confirm the event date or the products expected to be unveiled.
For Unparalleled coverage of India's Businesses and Economy – Subscribe to Business Today Magazine