Apple’s long-rumoured entry into the foldable smartphone market appears to be getting closer, with supply-chain reports, iOS 27 discoveries and analyst predictions increasingly pointing toward a 2026 launch. The device is widely being referred to as the iPhone Ultra, although Apple has not officially confirmed the name or the product.
Recent reports suggest Apple is developing a book-style foldable iPhone with an outer display and a much larger internal screen. Current expectations point to a roughly 5.5-inch cover display and a 7.7- to 7.8-inch folding OLED panel, giving the device a wider, almost tablet-like screen when opened.
Foldable design could focus on reducing the crease
One of Apple’s major challenges appears to have been the visible crease found on many existing foldable smartphones. Reports indicate that Apple has been working toward a significantly less visible crease using advanced display materials and ultra-thin glass technology.
The wider 4:3-style internal display could also give the phone a different appearance from conventional tall foldables, providing more space for browsing, productivity, multitasking and media consumption.
Touch ID could replace Face ID
Another major reported change is the possible return of Touch ID. Multiple reports suggest Apple could integrate a fingerprint sensor into the side button instead of using Face ID.
The decision may be related to the limited internal space available in a foldable phone. Removing the TrueDepth camera hardware could allow Apple to better accommodate the hinge, displays, cameras and battery system. The rear camera setup is also expected to use two cameras rather than the three-camera arrangement seen on some Pro models.
iOS 27 provides clues
Evidence for the foldable iPhone has also emerged from Apple’s software. Developers have reportedly discovered references such as “foldState” and “angleDegrees” in iOS 27, suggesting the operating system is being prepared to understand a device that can physically fold and operate at different angles.
Recent reports have also pointed to references to multiple batteries in iOS 27, which could fit a foldable design where battery cells are distributed across both halves of the device.
Price could exceed $2,000
The Foldable iPhone Ultra is expected to sit well above Apple’s conventional iPhone lineup. Current estimates vary considerably, with reports generally placing the price somewhere around $2,000 to $2,500.
Apple is reportedly targeting a fall 2026 announcement, potentially alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. However, production constraints could mean the foldable reaches customers later than the Pro models.
For now, Apple has not officially confirmed the foldable iPhone, its specifications, price or launch date. Nevertheless, the growing evidence from software, supply chains and industry analysts suggests Apple’s first foldable iPhone could finally become reality in 2026.
