Supply chain sources say launch plans remain intact as Samsung begins OLED panel production for new device
Apple still plans to unveil its first foldable iPhone in September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, according to multiple supply chain reports, despite recent claims that the device had been delayed.
The foldable handset is widely expected to launch under the name iPhone Ultra. While Apple may introduce the device during its September event, reports suggest it may not become available at the same time as the two iPhone 18 Pro models. Instead, the company could announce the device first and release it several weeks later, following a strategy it has used before with other products.
Delay claims challenged by new supply chain reports
Speculation about a delay surfaced after a report last week claimed that Apple had pushed back the foldable iPhone. However, that report was quickly disputed by a leaker on Weibo, and fresh reporting citing two supply chain sources now suggests the project remains on schedule.
One source at an Apple supplier reportedly said the foldable iPhone would still be unveiled in September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. Another source also said it had received no indication that the launch timeline had changed. The latest reports suggest that while the release date may vary, Apple is still targeting a 2026 debut for the device.
Samsung begins display production for foldable model
Meanwhile, Samsung Display appears to have taken a major step toward the phone’s production. Reports say Apple has selected Samsung as the exclusive supplier of foldable OLED panels for the device, and Samsung has now received approval to begin manufacturing after reportedly achieving an 80 percent yield rate.
The company’s facility in Vietnam has also started operations, with Apple said to have requested an initial batch of 3 million OLED panels this year. In addition, the foldable iPhone is expected to use Samsung’s newer M16 luminescent display material rather than the previously rumoured M14 stack.
The newer technology is believed to offer higher brightness, improved colour accuracy, better power efficiency and a longer lifespan, strengthening expectations that Apple’s first foldable iPhone remains firmly on course for launch.
