Apple's First Foldable iPhone Likely to Face Significant India Launch Delay

Apple is set to unveil its first foldable iPhone tonight alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models. However, Indian consumers may face a considerable wait before ordering becomes possible.

Supply-chain reports indicate Apple will have only 500,000 to 1 million foldable units globally in the September quarter, compared to 20-22 million standard iPhone 18 Pro units. The company has reportedly prioritised the US market first, with India and other secondary markets potentially waiting weeks or months. Some reports suggest an initial US-only launch, with wider availability deferred to late 2026 or early 2027.

Analysts have compared this to the iPhone X launch in 2017, which was announced in September but only became available in November. The foldable model is expected to remain in extremely limited capacity even when it does reach India.