Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts Apple will follow the iPhone X launch strategy for its foldable iPhone. Manufacturing difficulties are expected to delay production of the foldable device, potentially named iPhone Ultra. Consequently, it will likely be unveiled alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models in September. However, pre-orders for the foldable iPhone are anticipated to commence later, possibly in the fourth quarter of 2026. This mirrors the 2017 iPhone X release, which saw pre-orders open much later than the iPhone 8 models. Kuo estimates the foldable iPhone will cost between $2,299 and $2,499 in the US. He expects immediate sell-outs upon pre-order availability, leading to extended delivery times. Apple is projected to ship 7–8 million foldable iPhones in 2026. In contrast, the iPhone 18 Pro models are expected to ship 20–22 million units. Therefore, an unveiling in September means ordering might not be possible until at least October.