The highly anticipated iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra are set to make their grand entrance, but the question on everyone's mind is: when will they be available for pre-order? The usual Friday after the event is likely to be the case, but there's a twist this year. Apple has a history of respecting the significance of September 11, and with the 25th anniversary of the attacks falling on the same day as the iPhone event, it's possible that pre-orders will be delayed. This would mean that iPhone 18 Pro models could be available for pre-order on Saturday, September 12, at 12 a.m. Pacific Time, instead of the usual Friday. But what does this mean for the iPhone Ultra? According to Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the foldable iPhone may not be available for pre-order until the fourth quarter of 2026, which would be a significant delay from the iPhone 18 Pro models. This delay could be due to manufacturing challenges, as the iPhone Ultra is rumored to be the first foldable iPhone from Apple. The delay could also be due to the fact that the iPhone Ultra is expected to be a premium device, and Apple may want to ensure that it is available in sufficient quantities to meet demand. In any case, the most likely release date for the iPhone 18 Pro models is Friday, September 18, which would be a week after the event. This would give Apple time to prepare for the launch and ensure that the devices are available for pre-order. But what does this mean for the foldable smartphone market? According to industry sources, global foldable smartphone shipments are expected to grow 20% in 2026 compared to last year, with Apple's first entry into the category cited as one of the factors driving the increase. This would be a significant boost for the market, as Apple is known for its high-quality devices and strong brand loyalty. However, the delay in the iPhone Ultra's release could also mean that other foldable smartphone manufacturers will have a head start in the market. This could lead to a competitive landscape that is more fragmented and challenging for Apple. In my opinion, the delay in the iPhone Ultra's release is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it could give Apple time to ensure that the device is available in sufficient quantities and that it meets the high standards that Apple is known for. On the other hand, it could mean that other foldable smartphone manufacturers will have a head start in the market, which could lead to a more competitive landscape. In any case, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra are sure to be highly anticipated devices, and the delay in the iPhone Ultra's release only adds to the excitement. It will be interesting to see how the market responds to Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone category, and whether the delay will ultimately benefit or harm Apple's position in the market. Personally, I think that the delay in the iPhone Ultra's release is a strategic move by Apple to ensure that the device is available in sufficient quantities and that it meets the high standards that Apple is known for. However, I also think that it could be a missed opportunity for Apple to gain a head start in the market, which could lead to a more competitive landscape. In any case, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra are sure to be highly anticipated devices, and the delay in the iPhone Ultra's release only adds to the excitement. It will be interesting to see how the market responds to Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone category, and whether the delay will ultimately benefit or harm Apple's position in the market.
