Apple Inc (NASDAQ:AAPL, XETRA:APC) was the focus of a supply-chain preview from Citi on Friday, highlighting the upcoming iPhone 18 family as a key catalyst for component suppliers.

With shares trading at $328.21, the iPhone 18 lineup is expected to launch on 9 September , featuring Pro models priced roughly $200 higher than their predecessors.

At the centre of the preview is the tech giant's first foldable device, likely to be called the iPhone Ultra, which the bank expects to have a starting price above $2,000.

That foldable flagship is projected to feature dual front and dual rear cameras alongside an inner foldable display fitted with an ultra-thin glass and OLED cover.

Major hardware upgrades across the range could include A20 chips, an Apple-designed modem, and a variable-aperture main camera for the Pro and Pro Max models.

Following supply-chain underperformance during the June to August restocking period, the note states that the sector is likely to see a rally before launch and potential profit-taking afterwards.

Suppliers tied to the foldable device may face tight initial component supply and extended lead times, particularly for batteries, vapour chamber heatsinks, and structural parts.

Within the production network, Citi highlighted a preference for major share and content gainers such as Lens Tech, Lingyi, Amphenol, Largan, Sunny, AAC, Alps Alpine, Kioxia, Luxshare, and TSMC.

Crucial upcoming catalysts for the sector include initial sales and shipping schedules, as well as subsequent supply chain order adjustments.