iPhone Ultra: Rumors About Apple's Foldable iPhone Design and Release
Expected to launch in 2026, the iPhone Ultra's design and features revealed.
1Introduction
Rumors about Apple's foldable iPhone have been circulating for years. Initially claimed to launch in 2020, the device's release has been repeatedly postponed. Now, it's expected to arrive in 2026 under the name iPhone Ultra. However, given Apple's cautious approach to speculation, these details remain unconfirmed.
2Name and Branding
The foldable iPhone is expected to be officially named iPhone Ultra. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman suggested in spring 2026 that Apple would release a series of 'Ultra' products, including a foldable iPhone. Digital Chat Station on Weibo also shared leaks supporting this name.
3Launch Date
The iPhone Ultra is anticipated to debut in September 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models. Despite reports from Nikkei Asia about production delays, Bloomberg maintains that plans are on track. Initial supply may be limited.
4Software Clues
Discoveries in the iOS 27 beta, such as 'foldState' and 'angleDegrees,' strongly hint at an upcoming foldable device. These terms appear designed to inform apps about the device's folding status and angle. Macworld independently verified these findings.
5Design and Form Factor
The iPhone Ultra is rumored to feature a book-style foldable design, unfolding to an iPad mini-sized screen. Its vertical folding mechanism promises an experience similar to devices like the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold. Special effort is being made to achieve a nearly crease-free display.
6Display Features
The foldable iPhone is expected to boast a 7.7-7.8-inch inner display and a 5.3-5.5-inch outer display. The 4:3 aspect ratio of the inner screen will provide a more expansive viewing area. This dual-screen design aims to combine phone and tablet experiences in one device.
7Camera Systems
Reports suggest the iPhone Ultra will have a quad-camera setup but omit the telephoto lens. Space constraints in the foldable design reportedly led to this compromise. This omission might be noticeable given the device's expected premium price point.
8Security and Authentication
Due to its thin foldable design, the iPhone Ultra may lack Face ID. Instead, Touch ID is expected to be integrated into the side button, similar to the iPad Air's power button. This decision stems from the need for different front-facing camera configurations when folded and unfolded.
9Battery and Charging
Plural references to 'batteries' in the iOS 27 beta suggest the device might feature a dual-battery system. Additionally, the absence of a traditional glass back could impose limitations on wireless charging and MagSafe compatibility.
10Software and User Experience
The iPhone Ultra is expected to run a customized version of iOS rather than iPadOS. This means it will offer some productivity features without fully replacing the iPad experience. Apple may be developing new software features specifically for the foldable form factor.
11Price and Positioning
The iPhone Ultra is likely to be Apple's most expensive iPhone yet. The cost of foldable display technology and its premium positioning suggest a high price tag. However, the absence of features like a telephoto lens might draw criticism at this price point.
12Conclusion and Expectations
Apple's entry into the foldable iPhone market could make waves in mobile technology. The iPhone Ultra is expected to launch in 2026, but as Apple's first attempt in this category, it may come with some limitations. Despite the premium price, consumers might show significant interest in this innovative form factor.
Original article: Macworld — iPhone Ultra: Apple'ın Katlanabilir iPhone'u Hakkında Söylentiler