Supply chain reports indicate Apple will begin mass production of the iPhone Ultra in late July, positioning the foldable device for its expected September unveiling alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. The timing aligns with Apple's typical fall launch schedule, suggesting the company has addressed earlier concerns about potential delays.

According to Korean media sources citing supply chain officials from Korea and Taiwan, hinge-related issues that previously threatened the device's timeline have been resolved. These sources also claim Apple has finalized key specifications including the display, case design, and mechanical components, moving the phone into full production preparation.

Foxconn will handle manufacturing for the initial production batch, with trial production already completed in April. While questions remain about whether the iPhone Ultra will ship simultaneously with the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models, the production timeline suggests an announcement at the same September event is increasingly likely.

The foldable iPhone represents Apple's entry into a market segment dominated by Samsung's Galaxy Z series, where September launch timing could give Apple a competitive advantage in the premium smartphone space.