Apple reportedly approves iPhone Ultra 2 as iPhone Air 3 remains uncertain

We’ve not even gotten confirmation from Apple that they’re launching their first foldable, but a report coming from China has seemingly confirmed that even the second generation of the iPhone Ultra is on its way. A new leak from tipster Digital Chat Station suggests the company has internally approved work on the second-generation iPhone Ultra, even before the first foldable iPhone expectedly launches later this year. At the same time, the future of Apple’s slim iPhone Air lineup will depend on how well its next model performs in the market.

iPhone Ultra 2 reportedly approved

In a post on Weibo, Digital Chat Station claims the successor to Apple’s first foldable, which is expected to launch as the iPhone Ultra, has already been approved internally. He further suggests the second-generation model could feature a wider folding display than the first-generation iPhone Ultra (which is already said to be wide), although Apple is reportedly expected to reuse the same display panel while tweaking the aspect ratio.

The leak comes as reports indicate Apple’s first foldable iPhone is moving closer to production. According to The Elec, citing supply chain sources, Apple has finalised key specifications after validating major components, including the display, chassis and mechanical structure. The report adds that the company completed its first round of trial production in April, with manufacturing partner Foxconn expected to begin mass production by the end of July. The publication also noted that most of the hinge-related challenges that previously delayed development have now been resolved.

iPhone Air 3 may depend on sales

The outlook appears less certain for the iPhone Air series. According to the same Weibo leak, Apple has not yet started development of the iPhone Air 3, and the decision to move ahead with the model will depend on the commercial success of the upcoming iPhone Air 2. The phone is expected to launch next spring alongside the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e. If sales fail to meet Apple’s expectations, the company could reportedly discontinue the Air lineup altogether.

Apple’s reported strategy reflects where it sees long-term growth opportunities. Foldable smartphones have matured rapidly, with Samsung, HONOR, OPPO and Vivo already offering multiple generations of book-style foldables. Entering the category could help Apple compete more directly in the premium segment. Meanwhile, the ultra-thin smartphone category is still finding its audience, making the Air lineup a riskier proposition.