Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are set to launch in September, but the release of a new foldable model, potentially named iPhone Ultra, may face delays due to production challenges. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo from TFI Securities indicated that while the foldable iPhone could be announced at the same event as the other models, its availability might be postponed until later in the year. Kuo noted that the foldable design presents unique manufacturing complexities similar to those encountered with the iPhone X in 2017, which also saw a staggered release.
Production Challenges
Kuo warned that the foldable iPhone could experience significant initial demand, leading to potential sellouts and extended delivery times of 4 to 6 weeks or longer. He suggested that initial resale prices could be 50% to 100% above the official price due to scarcity and high demand. While production issues are expected to improve by year-end, it remains uncertain whether the demand for the foldable model will be sustainable in the long term.
Battery Specifications
Regulatory filings have revealed details about the battery capacities of the iPhone 18 Pro models. The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to feature a battery capacity of 4,288 mAh for the U.S. model, an increase from the previous generation. The iPhone 18 Pro Max will have a battery capacity of 5,567 mAh in the U.S. This increase is attributed to the higher power demands of the new A20 chipset and optimizations in iOS 27, which aim to enhance battery life.
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The delays in the iPhone Ultra's release could affect Apple's stock performance, particularly in the consumer electronics sector, as investors assess the implications of supply chain disruptions on sales. The anticipated high demand for the foldable model may also influence resale markets and pricing strategies. Watch for further updates on production timelines and sales forecasts as the September launch approaches.