Apple is ramping up production for its highly anticipated foldable device, reportedly increasing targets to 10 million units this year. This adjustment comes after previous forecasts sat closer to 7 million. The company has already secured parts for 80 million smartphones for the second half of 2026, signaling a massive push for its next generation of hardware.

Industry rivals like Xiaomi and Oppo face production hurdles due to memory shortages, but Apple's massive purchasing power provides a distinct advantage. The upcoming foldable, potentially branded as the iPhone Ultra, aims to feature a 7.8-inch inner display and an A20 chip. While hinge engineering issues appear resolved, initial shipments might remain limited before full-scale production begins later in the year.

Consumers should prepare for a premium price point for this new category. IDC predicts an average selling price of $2,500, with high-capacity storage models potentially reaching $3,000. This device arrives alongside the iPhone 18 lineup in September, marking a major shift in Apple's mobile hardware strategy. The company is leveraging its supply chain dominance to secure a first-mover advantage in the premium foldable market.