Rumors are mounting that the foldable iPhone will launch first in the US, while major markets including Japan could face delays of several months, with initial supply expected to be limited.
Apple may announce the foldable iPhone at its 10 September special event, launch it first in the US, and then roll it out sequentially to other major markets. The report focuses on this possibility, based on information from local sources.
According to ChannelNews Australia, the announcement is expected on 8 September local time, while the Australian launch could be delayed by up to 2–3 months from the US launch. Component suppliers cite supply and pricing issues as causes of the delay, and say problems were also identified during testing of mass-production models.
The hinge and foldable display remain the main challenges. Mass production was initially scheduled to begin in June 2026, but was postponed in early August, and the delay is reportedly continuing. There is also information that Apple’s production volume in the second half of 2026 is expected to be limited to approximately 7 million units.
Australian telecommunications carriers and major retailers have confirmed that the foldable iPhone will arrive in stores later than expected, and it is reportedly expected that the limited supply will first be allocated to the US before being rolled out sequentially to major markets, including China.