Apple is widely expected to enter the foldable smartphone market this week, with the company tipped to unveil its first foldable iPhone at its September 9 launch event.
The device, reportedly called the iPhone Ultra, is expected to debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup and new Apple Watch models, marking Apple’s first major entry into a smartphone category already dominated by Samsung and other Android manufacturers.
Although Apple has not confirmed the device, a growing stream of leaks has revealed potential details about its design, hardware, charging technology, price and release timeline.
Thinner Foldable Design
The iPhone Ultra is expected to feature a book-style folding design, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series.
Reports suggest the device could measure approximately 4.5mm thick when unfolded, potentially making it one of Apple’s thinnest smartphones.
It is expected to feature a 7.8-inch internal display and a 5.5-inch external screen. Recent leaks have also pointed to a nearly crease-free folding display, rounded bezels and a redesigned hinge aimed at improving durability.
Leaked dummy units shared by YouTube channel Unbox Therapy reportedly show a design with similarities to Google’s Pixel 11 Pro Fold, including a dual-camera system on the rear.
The device is also expected to be powered by Apple’s next-generation A20 Pro chip.
Other leaks have suggested changes to the button layout, including a possible relocation of the volume controls to the top of the device. Accessory manufacturer Benks has also reportedly published listings for cases designed for the unannounced smartphone.
MagSafe Could Feature
One of the more recent claims concerns Apple’s MagSafe wireless charging system.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has said Apple is expected to retain MagSafe on the foldable iPhone despite its unusually thin design.
If accurate, the feature would allow the device to work with existing MagSafe chargers and compatible magnetic accessories.
Earlier leaks and dummy units had suggested Apple might omit the magnets because of the phone’s thin profile. Gurman’s claim therefore contradicts some previous reports.
The technology could reportedly fit into the foldable because Apple has already incorporated MagSafe into its ultra-thin iPhone Air.
Price Could Exceed $2,000
The expected price could make the iPhone Ultra one of Apple’s most expensive smartphones.
Current estimates put the starting price at around $2,000, although analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has previously projected a range between $2,300 and $2,500.
The International Data Corporation has separately estimated an average price of about $2,550, while Gurman expects the device to cost at least $2,000.
Apple has yet to confirm any pricing information.
Possible September Release
Apple has confirmed its September 9 launch event, where the iPhone 18 lineup is expected to be unveiled.
The event is widely expected to serve as the launch platform for the company’s first foldable iPhone.
Some reports suggest the device could reach stores later in September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. One estimate has pointed to September 19 as a possible retail date.
However, the timeline remains uncertain. Analyst Tim Long has previously suggested that shipments could be delayed until December, while Gurman has disputed that possibility.
For now, Apple has not confirmed the iPhone Ultra’s name, specifications, price or release date.
The September 9 event is expected to settle the speculation surrounding Apple’s long-rumoured entry into the foldable smartphone market.
