iPhone Ultra Set to Echo iPhone X Launch Delays, Analyst Says

iPhone Ultra Launch Timeline

Analyst Ming‑Chi Kuo warns that the iPhone Ultra will likely follow the same staggered roll‑out pattern that defined the 2017 iPhone X debut. While Apple is expected to unveil the foldable device alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in September, Kuo says manufacturing bottlenecks will push pre‑order opening to the fourth quarter of 2026, echoing the six‑week gap the X endured after its September announcement.

Production constraints are estimated to limit the first wave to ↑ 7–8 million units, a fraction of the ↓ 20–22 million slated for the standard 18 Pro line.

“Supply constraints could push delivery to six weeks,” Kuo noted.

Pricing is projected at $2,299–$2,499 in the United States, positioning the iPhone Ultra as the premium flagship. Kuo predicts the device could sell out the moment orders open, stretching delivery windows to ↓ 4‑6 weeks or longer.

Industry observers, including Reuters and Bloomberg, note that Apple’s supply chain is still feeling the aftershocks of the recent pandemic disruptions, which may further affect rollout speed.