A select group of users have reportedly tried out the iPhone Ultra, as per Bloomberg's Mark Gurman who stated in his 'Power-On' newsletter with many speaking positively of its pocket-friendly build, hinge design and layout.
The device will be competing with other foldable smartphones from its peers such as Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8, Google's Pixel 11 Pro Fold and Oppo's Find N6, and hence would likely require a unique selling point beyond Apple's existing brand recognition.
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iPhone Ultra's Tentative Features, Pricing, Launch Date
Gurman's report stated that users described an iPad like screen and app layout that would make the device better suited for screening videos and playing games and managing productivity tasks in comparison to a conventional smartphone. It is expected to have a similar design to its contemporaries with a small outer screen when folded, and a notably bigger inner display when opened up.
This larger screen will likely use software similar to the iPad, with a similar app layout, as per reports. The folded out screen is also expected to act as a camera viewfinder, helping the user to better frame their videos and photos. Apple will however have to trade-off the telephoto-lens feature due to compromises made to execute the foldable design.
Users also praised the durability of its hinge mechanism which facilitiates the device's folding ability as well as its compact, pocket-friendly shape.
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Bloomberg reports further said that the iPhone Ultra will not retail for less than $2,000, with the company targeting a premium market. For comparison, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, is priced at around $1,900 (Rs 1.89 lakh). The reports also noted that Sept. 9 might be the launch date for the aforementioned device as Apple is set to hold a major event on that date.
Reports stated that the iPhone Ultra might make up to 25% of the global foldable smartphone shipments after months of its debut.
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