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-Carlsen Martin
Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone, widely expected to launch as the iPhone Ultra, could face shipping delays despite a possible September unveiling alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series. If recent reports are accurate, Samsung’s newly launched Galaxy Z Fold 8 may enjoy an even stronger lead in the premium foldable smartphone segment before Apple officially enters the race.
Apple’s Foldable Could Arrive Later Than Expected
Reports suggest Foxconn has started early production of Apple’s first foldable, but engineers are still refining key hardware components before full-scale manufacturing begins. The focus is reportedly on improving the hinge mechanism, increasing durability, and reducing the visibility of the display crease-two areas that remain critical for foldable smartphones.
Photo Credit: Yogesh Brar
This wouldn’t be the first time Apple has delayed shipments after a product announcement. The company unveiled the iPhone X in September 2017 but began shipping it only in November due to production challenges. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes Apple may adopt a similar strategy for the iPhone Ultra.
Samsung Already Has the Experience Advantage
While Apple continues to perfect its first foldable, Samsung is already on its eighth-generation Galaxy Z Fold. Years of hardware improvements have helped Samsung refine its hinge design, durability, multitasking software, and app optimisation, making the Galaxy Z Fold 8 one of the most mature foldables available today.
That experience also translates into consumer confidence, giving Samsung a significant advantage while Apple works through first-generation manufacturing challenges.
Limited Supply Could Slow Apple’s Momentum
Apple is reportedly planning a conservative initial production run of between 500,000 and one million units. If demand proves strong, customers may face long waiting periods due to limited availability, particularly in major markets.
The rumoured iPhone Ultra is expected to feature a 7.8-inch foldable inner display, a 5.5-inch cover screen, Apple’s upcoming A20 Pro chipset, and a 4,883mAh dual-cell battery. Reports also suggest Apple could replace Face ID with a Touch ID sensor embedded in the power button to better suit the foldable design.
Pricing is expected to reflect its premium positioning, with estimates ranging between Rs. 2.2 lakh and Rs. 2.4 lakh in India.
Samsung Leads-For Now
It is still too early to declare a winner since Apple has yet to officially unveil its first foldable. However, Samsung currently holds a clear advantage thanks to its years of experience, refined hardware, and immediate availability.
If Apple delivers a durable, crease-free foldable with seamless iOS integration, the iPhone Ultra could quickly become a formidable rival. Until then, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 remains the benchmark in the premium foldable smartphone market.
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published: Friday, July 24, 2026, 13:22 [IST]
