Apple’s long-awaited entry into the foldable smartphone market could face a constrained launch as manufacturing challenges threaten to limit the availability of its first foldable iPhone, widely expected to be branded the iPhone Ultra.
Reports claims that Apple is experiencing lower-than-expected production yields during the device’s pre-assembly process, particularly in surface-mount technology (SMT), where electronic components are attached to circuit boards.
Earlier concerns over hinge durability have largely been addressed, but manufacturing efficiency remains below target.
Despite the production hurdles, Apple is still expected to unveil the premium smartphone alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup during its annual September product event.
However, reports claim that the company may have only a fraction of its planned inventory ready for shipment at launch, potentially delaying deliveries by several weeks or even months.
