iPhone Ultra and Fold: Latest Leaks, Pricing, and Release Dates

Dummy models of Apple’s first foldable smartphone have emerged, revealing a device with a 5.5-inch display when closed and a 7.8-inch screen when unfolded.

The leaked mockups indicate a design that departs from most current foldable smartphones by utilizing a wider 4:3 aspect ratio, similar to an iPad. When open, the device is approximately a half-inch smaller than the iPad mini. Reports suggest the chassis is designed for extreme thinness, potentially measuring 4.5mm when unfolded. This slim profile limits the camera hardware to a two-lens system housed in a raised bump that does not extend across the entire rear of the device.

Industry leaks suggest Apple will brand the device as the “iPhone Ultra.” This naming convention aligns with existing high-end product lines, including the Apple Watch Ultra and a deeply integrated version of CarPlay. Analysts suggest the “Ultra” designation is likely intended to distinguish the device from Samsung’s Galaxy Fold and to justify a projected price point exceeding $2,000.

The device has reportedly entered a testing phase that precedes mass production. However, conflicting reports have emerged regarding the official release timeline. Mark Gurman of Bloomberg indicates that the foldable is on track for a September launch, potentially debuting alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.

Contradicting this timeline, Nikkei Asia has reported that unexpected complications during the engineering test phase may cause significant delays. According to those reports, the need for necessary adjustments could push the first shipments of the foldable device back as far as 2027. The uncertainty surrounding the production timeline previously caused Apple’s stock to drop 5.1% before recovering.

The emergence of these dummy models serves as a signal to accessory manufacturers to commence preparing cases and peripherals. While leakers such as Digital Chat Station suggest that Chinese manufacturers are already considering adopting “Ultra” branding for their own foldables to compete directly with Apple’s specifications and pricing, Apple has not confirmed the existence of the device or its naming.

An Apple representative has not responded to requests for comment on the device’s specifications or the conflicting launch dates.