Apple is making a bold move by entering the foldable market with its upcoming iPhone Ultra, setting its sights directly on Samsung’s dominance. This first foldable iPhone is expected to feature a seamless display with no visible crease and user-adapted software. Here’s everything we know so far about the “iPhone Fold.”
When is the iPhone Ultra Coming?
According to tech analyst Mark Gurman, the iPhone Ultra is likely to launch this year, with expectations to be unveiled alongside the iPhone 18 Pro (Max) in September 2026. This timeline is supported by reports of soon-to-begin production for Apple’s foldable smartphone.
Due to the complex manufacturing processes involved, the initial availability of the foldable iPhone will be extremely limited, with estimates suggesting only between 500,000 to 1 million units will be ready by Q3. Therefore, directly purchasing in-store is unlikely.
This constrained supply situation mirrors the release of the iPhone X in 2017, where production challenges delayed the actual market launch by several weeks.
What Will the iPhone Ultra Cost?
The device is expected to start at approximately $2,000. In China, the price is pegged at around 15,999 Yuan, equivalent to about 1,900 Euros. This pricing applies to the base model with 256GB of storage. For versions with 512GB and 1TB of storage, buyers may need to pay 2,000 Yuan more, translating to an additional 240 Euros.
Thus, the top-tier model could be priced at roughly 2,400 Euros, although this doesn’t translate directly into Euros. The 1TB variant is anticipated to be priced at around 2,999 Euros in Germany.
Design: Air Looks Over Pro Design
Design-wise, the iPhone Ultra could resemble the iPhone Air. The back features a pill-shaped camera cutout containing two sensors and a flash. Unlike the dual-tone design of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, the back appears to be made entirely of a single-color glass.
Sources indicate that the Fold, when closed, will measure 9.2mm thick—about 0.3mm thicker than the Galaxy Z Fold 7 (8.9mm). Combined with the camera module, the thickness increases to a substantial 13.7mm. The overall dimensions will stand at 117mm tall and 84mm wide, making it just 2mm taller than the compact iPhone 4.
Displays: Does the Hinge Present Issues?
The display for the iPhone Ultra, likely supplied by Samsung, has already been showcased at CES 2026. Compared to the Fold 7, the crease will be nearly invisible, accompanied by an improved hinge.
Intriguingly, the unfolded iPhone Ultra is rumored to feature a display size similar to that of an iPad Mini, measuring 7.8 inches. However, to accommodate such a format, the outer display is expected to be relatively narrow and small, at just 5.3 inches—making it the smallest outer display among book-style foldables.
With Under-Display Camera?
Previous rumors suggested that the iPhone Ultra would come equipped with an under-display camera (UDC). Techniques implemented by Samsung up until the Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Nubia’s RedMagic 11 Pro, could potentially be utilized here. According to a report by MacRumors, Apple may employ a 24 MP UDC supported by six plastic lenses. However, more recent leaks do not mention this feature, indicating it may simply feature an 18 MP selfie sensor for both internal and external displays.
Technology & Battery: With iPhone 18 Pro Chip?
The device is expected to be powered by the Apple A20 Pro chip, which will also be featured in the successor to the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Few details are available on this chip, but it’s anticipated to be manufactured using a similar 2-nanometer process as the Exynos 2600 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, along with an Apple C2 5G modem.
Battery Specifications Are Still Unknown
Details about the battery size remain sparse. Given that Apple, like Samsung, is forgoing silicon-carbon batteries, the iPhone Ultra’s battery is likely to be relatively small. However, thanks to software optimizations, an adequate battery life is still expected.
Only Two Cameras on the Back
It appears Apple may make some compromises regarding the camera setup, as reports suggest only two sensors will be utilized: a 48 MP main camera and a 48 MP ultra-wide camera. It appears there will be no zoom camera. If this information holds true, Apple may be at a disadvantage compared to competing brands such as Samsung and Honor.
Software: iOS 27 with Fold Optimization
Gurman has noted that with the iPhone Ultra unfolded, the interface might resemble that of an iPad rather than a traditional iPhone. It is planned that users will be able to display two applications side-by-side, thus introducing true split-screen multitasking for the first time on an iPhone, a feature that has previously been limited to picture-in-picture functionality.
Many applications are expected to receive a side navigation bar on the left. Developers will be provided with tools to adapt their existing apps for this new layout, making it particularly useful for users who wish to keep multiple contents in view simultaneously—be it for reading, working, or comparing information.
Accessories: First Cases Now Available for Order
Long before the official unveiling, accessory manufacturers are already gearing up to claim their stake in what could be the most expensive iPhone ever. “Armor-X” has already made a transparent case for the “iPhone 18 Fold” available for order, designed to protect your device with TPU bumpers.
Meanwhile, “iFunsmart” promises more than just ordinary protection, featuring thick protective edges alongside MagSafe support through strong integrated magnets. Their marketing images further highlight the unique design, consistent with various dummies we’ve seen before.
Competition: Samsung Plans Fold 8 Wide to Counterattack
Not only is Apple planning a wide foldable phone; Samsung is reportedly working on another foldable smartphone, expected to be unveiled alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8 this summer. This new device, dubbed Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide, carries the codename “H8” and model number SM-F971U.
This Gives Samsung the Upper Hand Against Apple!
Current information suggests that the wider foldable aims to directly challenge Apple’s first iPhone Ultra. It is conceivable that Samsung will utilize the same displays as those featured in the iPhone Ultra. Additionally, it is expected to include a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, a 5,000 mAh battery, and a dual-camera setup featuring a 200 MP main camera.
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