Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone at its September 9 “Surprise and Shine” event, with reports widely referring to the device as the iPhone Ultra. Apple has not officially confirmed the product or its name, but its entry into the foldable smartphone market would mark a significant expansion of the iPhone lineup.
A Compact, Passport-Style Design
The device is expected to follow a book-style foldable design, similar in concept to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series. Reports suggest it could have a 5.5-inch cover display and a larger 7.8-inch inner screen.
Leaks have also pointed to an unusual design, with one side appearing more squared off and the other more rounded. The reported 16:10 cover display and roughly 4:3 inner screen could allow the device to function as a conventional smartphone when folded and a compact tablet when opened.
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Reports have suggested that the foldable could measure around 4.5mm when opened, potentially making it thinner than any previous iPhone.
Software Built Around The Fold
Apple is also expected to adapt iOS 27 for the larger foldable display. Reports have pointed to improved app scaling, multitasking features and support for side-by-side apps similar to those available on the iPad.
The software could also include display modes designed for different folding angles, although Apple has not confirmed any foldable-specific features.
A New 2nm Chip
Specifications remain unconfirmed, but the foldable is expected to use Apple's A20 Pro chip, reportedly built using a 2nm manufacturing process.
Reports suggest the new processor could offer up to 15% higher performance and 30% better power efficiency compared with the A19 Pro.
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A Steep Price And A Cautious Rollout
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has estimated that the foldable could start at between $2,400 and $2,500, or roughly Rs 2 lakh-Rs 2.1 lakh before considering India-specific taxes and pricing.
Higher-storage variants could potentially cross $3,000, or around Rs 2.5 lakh based on direct currency conversion. Such pricing would make it Apple's most expensive iPhone yet.
Reports have also suggested Apple could initially keep supplies limited and launch the device in select markets.
Crease And Durability Under Scrutiny
The display crease and hinge durability are expected to be among the most closely watched aspects of Apple's first foldable.
Apple has reportedly spent years developing its foldable technology, with reports suggesting the company has focused heavily on reducing the visibility of the crease and improving the durability of the hinge. However, the final design and real-world performance will only become clear after the device is officially unveiled and independently tested.
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