Apple Upgrades Israel to First-Wave Launch Tier for Foldable iPhone
Apple has upgraded Israel to its first-wave launch tier, allowing local consumers to pre-order the new foldable iPhone Ultra and iPhone 18 Pro on September 12, with deliveries starting September 18 alongside the US.
For years, Apple product launches have followed a predictable pattern: the tech giant unveils its new devices, American and European consumers rush to the stores, and tech enthusiasts in Israel are left waiting for subsequent release waves. This year, however, that long-standing tradition is set to break. New information obtained by Geektime reveals that the upcoming iPhone launch will mark an unprecedented milestone for Israeli consumers.
Israel Upgraded to the First Wave
Apple typically rolls out its flagship products in phases. Following its major announcement events, the company usually opens pre-orders on the subsequent Friday, with shipping starting a week later. Historically, the first wave of deliveries has been reserved for Apple's primary markets, led by the United States and select European countries, while Israel was relegated to later waves.
According to multiple industry sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity, Apple has officially upgraded Israel to its first-wave launch tier. This historic shift is set to begin with the highly anticipated unveiling of Apple's first foldable iPhone.
Pre-Orders and Shipping Dates Revealed
During the upcoming "Surprise and Shine" event, Apple is expected to reveal the iPhone Ultra (its first foldable smartphone) alongside the iPhone 18 Pro. While Apple will not explicitly mention Israel during the global broadcast, local distributors are prepared to launch major advertising campaigns immediately following the event, inviting customers to register for pre-order notifications.
For the first time, pre-orders in Israel will officially open on Friday, September 12. Deliveries and in-store availability will begin the following Friday, September 18. This alignment ensures that Israeli consumers will receive their new devices on the exact same day as customers in the United States.
The Inventory Question
This logistical upgrade comes shortly after Apple reduced official iPhone prices in Israel. However, questions regarding stock availability remain. Last year's launch of the iPhone 17 series in Israel was plagued by low inventory, resulting in significant waiting times for local buyers.
With some of the war-related logistical challenges partially resolved and several international airlines resuming flights to Israel, it remains to be seen whether Apple will allocate sufficient inventory to satisfy the local demand for this major launch.
