One of the most eagerly anticipated devices in Apple's history, its first foldable smartphone, will reportedly be named 'iPhone Ultra', according to Macworld. Until now, the device was widely referred to as the iPhone Fold.
iPhone Ultra Branding
Macworld's sources indicate that while 'iPhone Fold' might seem obvious, Apple has chosen 'iPhone Ultra' as the marketing name. The report also suggests that Apple is working on other 'Ultra' products, including a high-end MacBook Ultra early next year, and potentially expanding the branding to AirPods and iPads. 'Like the iPhone and MacBook, an iPad Ultra would be a more expensive and more experimental device,' Macworld added.
Launch Details
The iPhone Ultra will sit alongside the iPhone 18 lineup but won't bear the number 18 in its name, similar to the iPhone Air. It is expected to be the marquee announcement at the iPhone 18 Pro event in September. Apple aims to ship the iPhone Ultra alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models this fall, though Ultra models may hit stores a few weeks later and in smaller quantities. Unlike previous years, Apple won't upgrade the base iPhone and iPhone Air this fall, shifting those models to the first half of 2027 alongside the iPhone 18e.
Design and Features
According to leaker Jon Prosser, Apple has settled on a book-style design, with a 5.5-inch display when closed and a 7.8-inch display when opened. The device will be 9mm thick closed and 4.5mm open. Apple aims to eliminate the crease issue common in foldables by using a metal plate and liquid metal in the hinge. The outside will resemble a standard iPhone. Cameras include one on the outside, two rear-facing, and one on the inside. Touch ID will return in the power button, replacing Face ID. Colours will be limited to black and white, with a price range of $2,000–$2,500.
Apple's History and Leadership
Apple, founded in 1976, has seen a trillion-dollar rise with milestones like the Macintosh, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. In 2026, Tim Cook stepped aside as CEO, becoming executive chairman, with John Ternus taking over as CEO on September 1. Ternus declined to comment on the foldable iPhone rumours.
