Introduction
Apple has finally done what millions of iPhone fans have waited nearly a decade for.
The company is launching its first-ever foldable iPhone — the iPhone Ultra — in fall 2026. After years of Samsung, Google, and Motorola dominating the foldable phone market completely unchallenged, Apple is entering the category with what Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has called “the most significant overhaul in the iPhone’s history.”
And unlike anything that came before it, the iPhone Ultra doesn’t look like any other foldable phone on the market.
It’s shorter. It’s wider. It unfolds into something closer to an iPad mini than a tall, narrow Android tablet. It’s crease-free. And it starts at approximately $1,999 — making it the most expensive iPhone ever made.
In this complete guide, we cover everything confirmed and leaked about the iPhone Ultra foldable: its design, display, specs, price, release date, Touch ID decision, iOS 27 exclusive features, and how it stacks up against the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.
(Sources: MacRumors, 9to5Mac, Bloomberg/Mark Gurman, Macworld — May 2026)
What Is the iPhone Ultra?
The iPhone Ultra is Apple’s first book-style foldable smartphone. It has two displays — a smaller outer screen visible when the phone is folded shut, and a large inner screen that opens up like a book to reveal an iPad-like display.
For years, the device was referred to in leaks as the “iPhone Fold.” However, recent reporting from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and multiple supply chain sources indicate Apple will call it the iPhone Ultra — positioning it above the iPhone 18 Pro Max in the product lineup, similar to how Apple Watch Ultra sits above the standard Apple Watch.
The name has not been officially confirmed by Apple as of May 2026.
(Source: MacRumors — https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/iphone-fold/) (Source: Tech Advisor — https://www.techadvisor.com/article/739361/foldable-iphone-release-date-price-specs.html)
iPhone Ultra Release Date — When Is It Coming?
Based on the most current reporting:
| Timeline | Details |
|---|---|
| Official announcement | September 2026 (Apple Fall Event) |
| Alongside | iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max |
| Mass production start | August 2026 (delayed from June) |
| Wide availability | Possibly December 2026 or into 2027 |
| iPhone 18 (standard) launch | Spring 2027 (separate phase) |
The September launch window is considered confirmed by Mark Gurman, who stated the device is “on track” despite earlier reports of engineering test phase setbacks from Nikkei Asia.
However, Barclays analyst Tim Long has predicted the actual shipping date could be December 2026 — a couple of months after the announcement. Supply is expected to be severely limited at launch due to manufacturing complexity.
“Apple is aiming to put the device on sale at the same time or ‘soon after’ the non-folding iPhone 18 Pro models,” Gurman reported.
(Source: Macworld — https://www.macworld.com/article/2629813/apple-folding-iphone-ultra-design-display-specs-release.html) (Source: MacRumors — https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/iphone-fold/)
iPhone Ultra Design — The “Passport” Look That’s Dividing Fans
This is the most talked-about aspect of the iPhone Ultra right now: it looks completely different from every other foldable phone on the market.
While Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 is tall and narrow when closed, the iPhone Ultra dummy models that have leaked show a device that is noticeably shorter and wider — closer to passport dimensions than a regular phone shape.
As tech YouTuber ZoneofTECH noted in a viral side-by-side comparison posted on X in May 2026: “The iPhone Ultra dummy looks more like a tablet that happens to fold than a phone that unfolds into a tablet.”
(Source: Phandroid — https://phandroid.com/2026/05/11/360411/) (Source: MacObserver — https://www.macobserver.com/news/iphone-ultra-fold-dummy-unit-vs-z-fold-7-apples-wider-design-is-already-dividing-fans/)
Design Specs (Based on Leaked Dummy Models)
| Design Element | iPhone Ultra | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Folded width | Shorter & wider (“passport”) | Taller & narrower |
| Thickness (folded) | ~9.2–9.5mm | ~8.9mm |
| Frame material | Titanium + aluminum | Titanium |
| Hinge material | Liquid metal | Proven 7th-gen hinge |
| Weight | Slightly heavier | ~215g |
| Color | Multiple options | Multiple options |
When unfolded, the iPhone Ultra’s inner display has a 4:3 aspect ratio — the same proportion used by iPads — which means existing iPad apps work naturally on it without awkward letterboxing.
(Source: 9to5Mac — https://9to5mac.com/2026/05/13/iphone-ultra-is-coming-six-new-features-in-apples-high-end-model/) (Source: MacRumors — https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/iphone-fold/)
iPhone Ultra Display — Crease-Free Breakthrough
One of Apple’s biggest engineering achievements with the iPhone Ultra is what they’ve done with the inner display crease — that visible fold line that has plagued every foldable smartphone since 2019.
Apple reportedly pursued eliminating the crease “regardless of cost” and has developed a new material property that makes the crease essentially disappear. Early descriptions call it “nearly invisible” when the phone is unfolded.
How Apple Achieved This
Apple used a combination of three technologies working together:
- Liquid metal hinge — connects the front and back panels and flexes without stress points
- Ultra-thin glass (UTG) sandwich — an OLED panel placed between two separate layers of extremely thin glass
- Optically Clear Adhesive (OCA) — a specialized flexible cushion material that spreads stress across the display surface and temporarily stiffens under sudden pressure to prevent damage
The inner display itself was designed by Samsung Display — but Apple designed and engineered everything around it, including the panel structure and lamination method.
(Source: MacRumors — https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/iphone-fold/) (Source: AppleInsider — https://appleinsider.com/articles/26/04/24/iphone-fold-or-iphone-ultra-what-to-expect-from-the-folding-iphone)
Display Sizes
| Display | Size |
|---|---|
| Inner (unfolded) display | 7.7–7.8 inches (4:3 ratio — iPad mini-like) |
| Outer (cover) display | 5.3–5.5 inches (shorter, wider aspect ratio) |
| Inner resolution | 2,713 × 1,920 pixels |
| Panel type | OLED (both displays) |
(Source: Macworld — https://www.macworld.com/article/2629813/apple-folding-iphone-ultra-design-display-specs-release.html)
iPhone Ultra Specs — What’s Inside
Chipset: A20 Bionic
iPhone Ultra will be powered by Apple’s A20 Bionic chip — the most powerful mobile chip Apple has ever made, built on TSMC’s 3nm process. This is the same chip expected in iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max.
Modem: Apple C2
The iPhone Ultra will be among the first devices to feature Apple’s in-house C2 cellular modem — a successor to the C1 modem launched in iPhone 16e and iPhone Air. The C2 modem is expected to bring enhanced 5G performance and support for Limit Precise Location privacy features.
(Source: 9to5Mac — https://9to5mac.com/2026/05/13/apples-new-iphone-privacy-feature-just-expanded-to-more-users/)
Battery
- Estimated capacity: 5,000–5,800 mAh
- Combined with A20 chip efficiency, analysts expect class-leading battery life for a foldable device
(Source: Lifehack/Vocal Media — https://vocal.media/lifehack/i-phone-fold-2026-vs-samsung-galaxy-z-fold7-head-to-head-comparison)
RAM & Storage
- RAM: 12 GB
- Storage options: 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB
- No microSD card slot
(Source: GSMArena — https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_iphone_fold_5g-13804.php)
Complete Specs Table
| Specification | iPhone Ultra (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Chip | Apple A20 Bionic (3nm) |
| Modem | Apple C2 |
| RAM | 12 GB |
| Storage | 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB |
| Inner display | 7.7–7.8″ OLED, 2713×1920, 4:3 |
| Outer display | 5.3–5.5″ OLED |
| Battery | 5,000–5,800 mAh |
| Frame | Titanium + aluminum |
| Authentication | Touch ID (power button) |
| Cameras (rear) | 48MP main + 48MP ultrawide |
| Front cameras | Two 18MP cameras (one per display) |
| OS at launch | iOS 27 (exclusive features) |
| 5G | Yes (via Apple C2) |
| MagSafe | Expected (unconfirmed) |
| Thickness (unfolded) | ~4.7mm |
| Thickness (folded) | ~9.2–9.5mm |
The Big Surprise: No Face ID — Touch ID Is Back
One of the most unexpected revelations from iPhone Ultra leaks is that Face ID will not be on this device.
Instead, Apple is bringing back Touch ID — integrated into the power button, similar to how it works on the iPad Air and iPad mini.
The reason? The iPhone Ultra is too thin. Apple reportedly could not shrink the necessary Face ID components enough to fit two separate modules — one for each display — into the device’s ultra-slim profile.
“Apple is bringing back Touch ID and integrating it into the power button. Due to the device’s thinness, Apple reportedly couldn’t shrink the necessary Face ID components enough to fit two separate modules into iPhone Ultra,” 9to5Mac reported.
(Source: 9to5Mac — https://9to5mac.com/2026/05/13/iphone-ultra-is-coming-six-new-features-in-apples-high-end-model/)
The expectation is that a future generation iPhone Ultra will reintroduce Face ID once miniaturization makes it possible.
iPhone Ultra Camera System
Unlike the iPhone 18 Pro models which are expected to feature a triple-camera setup with variable aperture and dedicated telephoto lens, the iPhone Ultra will have a simpler dual-camera system due to space constraints from the folding mechanism:
- 48 MP Main camera (rear)
- 48 MP Ultrawide camera (rear)
- 18 MP Center Stage front camera (outer display)
- 18 MP Center Stage front camera (inner display — one for each screen)
The absence of a telephoto lens is considered the biggest camera compromise compared to iPhone 18 Pro. However, Apple’s computational photography and video capabilities are expected to make the dual-camera setup highly competitive.
(Source: 9to5Mac — https://9to5mac.com/2026/05/13/iphone-ultra-is-coming-six-new-features-in-apples-high-end-model/) (Source: MacRumors — https://www.macrumors.com/2026/05/11/reasons-to-wait-for-the-iphone-18-pro-max/)
iOS 27 Exclusive Features for iPhone Ultra
Apple is developing a specialized version of iOS 27 specifically for the iPhone Ultra, with features that will not be available on any other iPhone model. Early leaks suggest:
- Sidebar multitasking — a persistent left-side app sidebar when the device is unfolded, similar to iPad
- Split-screen app layouts — designed for the 4:3 inner display
- Flex Mode equivalent — features optimized for when the phone is partially folded
- Exclusive home screen layouts for the wide outer display
(Source: Moglix — https://www.moglix.com/articles/apple-s-iphone-fold-features-price-and-launch-date)
iOS 27 itself is expected to be unveiled at WWDC 2026 on June 8, 2026, with the first developer beta releasing the same day.
(Source: 9to5Mac — https://9to5mac.com/2026/05/11/apple-releases-ios-26-5-with-3-key-features-including-new-wallpapers-for-your-iphone/)
iPhone Ultra Price — How Much Will It Cost?
The iPhone Ultra will be the most expensive iPhone ever made.
| Model | Expected Starting Price |
|---|---|
| iPhone Ultra (256 GB) | ~$1,999 (most analysts) |
| iPhone Ultra (512 GB) | ~$2,199 (estimated) |
| iPhone Ultra (1 TB) | ~$2,499+ (estimated) |
“Most analysts expect a starting price around $1,999 for a 256GB model. One thing seems certain: this will be the most expensive iPhone ever,” 9to5Mac reported.
(Source: 9to5Mac — https://9to5mac.com/2026/05/13/iphone-ultra-is-coming-six-new-features-in-apples-high-end-model/) (Source: Macworld — https://www.macworld.com/article/2629813/apple-folding-iphone-ultra-design-display-specs-release.html)
Price in Other Regions (Estimated)
| Region | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| USA | ~$1,999+ |
| UK | ~£1,799+ |
| India | ~₹1,79,999–2,00,000 |
| Pakistan | ~PKR 5,50,000–6,50,000 (grey market estimate) |
(Source: SuccessKnocks — https://successknocks.com/apple-foldable-iphone-ultra-release-date-specs/)
iPhone Ultra vs Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 — Full Comparison
| Feature | iPhone Ultra | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Launch date | September 2026 | July 2025 (available now) |
| Starting price | ~$1,999 | ~$1,999 |
| Inner display | 7.7–7.8″ OLED, 4:3 | ~7.3″ OLED, taller |
| Outer display | 5.3–5.5″, wider/shorter | ~6.3″, taller/narrower |
| Chip | A20 Bionic (3nm) | Snapdragon 8 Elite |
| RAM | 12 GB | 12 GB |
| Battery | 5,000–5,800 mAh | ~4,400 mAh |
| Rear cameras | 48MP + 48MP (no telephoto) | 50MP + 50MP + 32MP tele |
| Face ID / Face unlock | No — Touch ID only | Yes |
| Crease | Nearly invisible | Visible |
| Thickness (folded) | ~9.2–9.5mm | ~8.9mm |
| Foldable generations | 1st generation | 7th generation |
| OS | iOS 27 | Android 16 |
| Available right now? | No — September 2026 | Yes |
Bottom line: If you want a foldable today with proven hinge reliability and versatile cameras, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 wins. If you want the most ambitious, crease-free display technology and Apple ecosystem integration — and can wait until fall — the iPhone Ultra could be worth the wait.
(Source: Vocal Media/Lifehack — https://vocal.media/lifehack/i-phone-fold-2026-vs-samsung-galaxy-z-fold7-head-to-head-comparison) (Source: Phandroid — https://phandroid.com/2026/05/11/360411/)
Supply Warning: Should You Expect Shortages?
Yes — and this is critical for anyone planning to buy at launch.
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has warned that production challenges could cause supply shortages into 2027. Manufacturing a first-generation foldable iPhone is significantly more complex than a standard iPhone, involving:
- New hinge engineering
- New display assembly processes
- Tighter manufacturing tolerances
- Complex dual-display internal architecture
Mass production at Foxconn was originally scheduled to begin in June 2026 but has been pushed back to August 2026, according to MacRumors. This means launch day availability will likely be very limited.
If you plan to buy at launch, order the moment pre-orders open. Don’t wait.
(Source: MacRumors — https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/iphone-fold/)
Is the iPhone Ultra Worth Buying? — Honest Assessment
Buy It If:
- You want the most innovative iPhone design since the original iPhone
- You regularly use your phone for productivity, multitasking, or content creation
- You want an iPad mini experience in your pocket
- You’re deeply embedded in the Apple/iOS ecosystem
- You’re willing to pay $2,000+ for a first-generation device
Wait If:
- You want a foldable phone right now (Galaxy Z Fold 7 is available today)
- You rely heavily on telephoto zoom photography
- You prefer Face ID over Touch ID
- You’re concerned about first-generation hardware reliability
- Supply constraints in your region worry you
FAQ: iPhone Ultra 2026
Q1: What is the iPhone Ultra? The iPhone Ultra is Apple’s first foldable smartphone, expected to launch in September 2026. It features a book-style design with a 7.7–7.8 inch inner OLED display and a 5.3–5.5 inch outer display, powered by the A20 Bionic chip. It will be the most expensive iPhone ever, starting at approximately $1,999. (Source: Macworld — https://www.macworld.com/article/2629813/apple-folding-iphone-ultra-design-display-specs-release.html)
Q2: When is iPhone Ultra releasing? Apple is expected to announce the iPhone Ultra at its fall event in September 2026, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. However, wide availability may not come until December 2026 or early 2027 due to production complexity and supply constraints. (Source: MacRumors — https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/iphone-fold/)
Q3: How much does iPhone Ultra cost? Most analysts project a starting price of approximately $1,999 for the 256GB model, making it the most expensive iPhone ever released. Higher storage options could push the price above $2,400. (Source: 9to5Mac — https://9to5mac.com/2026/05/13/iphone-ultra-is-coming-six-new-features-in-apples-high-end-model/)
Q4: Why does iPhone Ultra not have Face ID? Apple could not fit the necessary Face ID sensor modules — one for each display — into the device’s ultra-thin profile. Instead, Touch ID is integrated into the power button, similar to the iPad Air and iPad mini. (Source: 9to5Mac — https://9to5mac.com/2026/05/13/iphone-ultra-is-coming-six-new-features-in-apples-high-end-model/)
Q5: What is the screen size of iPhone Ultra? The inner display is 7.7–7.8 inches with a 4:3 aspect ratio (iPad mini-like). The outer display is 5.3–5.5 inches with a shorter, wider aspect ratio. (Source: Macworld — https://www.macworld.com/article/2629813/apple-folding-iphone-ultra-design-display-specs-release.html)
Q6: Does iPhone Ultra have a crease? Apple has reportedly solved the crease problem that affects most foldable phones. The inner display is described as “nearly invisible” crease using a combination of a liquid metal hinge, ultra-thin glass, and specialized optically clear adhesive. (Source: MacRumors — https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/iphone-fold/)
Q7: Is iPhone Ultra better than Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7? It depends on your priorities. iPhone Ultra likely wins on display quality (crease-free), battery life, and iOS ecosystem. Galaxy Z Fold 7 wins on camera versatility (triple cameras), proven reliability, and availability — you can buy it now. iPhone Ultra is not yet released. (Source: Vocal Media — https://vocal.media/lifehack/i-phone-fold-2026-vs-samsung-galaxy-z-fold7-head-to-head-comparison)
Q8: What iOS version will iPhone Ultra run? iPhone Ultra will launch with iOS 27, which will include exclusive multitasking features for the foldable form factor, including sidebar layouts, split-screen modes, and the wide outer display home screen. iOS 27 is expected to be revealed at WWDC 2026 on June 8. (Source: Moglix — https://www.moglix.com/articles/apple-s-iphone-fold-features-price-and-launch-date)
Conclusion
The iPhone Ultra is the most significant product Apple has launched in years — perhaps since the iPhone X introduced Face ID and edge-to-edge displays in 2017.
It isn’t just another phone. It’s Apple’s statement that the era of flat slabs is ready for its next evolution. A crease-free foldable display. An inner screen the size of an iPad mini. A wider, passport-style design that nothing else on the market replicates. iOS 27 with multitasking features built specifically for the form factor.
At $1,999+, it will be the most expensive iPhone ever. Supply will be tight. It’s a first-generation product with first-generation trade-offs — no telephoto, no Face ID, uncertain hinge longevity.
But as Mark Gurman put it, this is “the most significant overhaul in the iPhone’s history.”
Whether you buy day one or wait for generation two, the iPhone Ultra is the product that changes what we expect from a smartphone. Keep an eye on WWDC 2026 on June 8 for the first official iOS 27 preview — and set your alarms for September.
Sources: 9to5Mac, MacRumors, Macworld, Bloomberg/Mark Gurman, Phandroid, MacObserver, AppleInsider, Tech Advisor, GSMArena, Vocal Media, Moglix, SuccessKnocks