Apple’s long-rumoured foldable smartphone is once again in the spotlight, with fresh leaks suggesting the device could launch under a new premium branding: iPhone Ultra. According to recent industry reports and supply-chain sources, Apple may position its first foldable device above the existing Pro models, marking a new ultra-premium category within the iPhone lineup.

The company has been reportedly testing foldable prototypes for several years, and the latest leaks indicate the device could arrive as Apple’s most expensive and technologically advanced smartphone when it eventually launches.

Expected Launch Timeline

While Apple has not officially confirmed the project, analysts believe the foldable iPhone could arrive around 2026 or 2027 depending on final hardware readiness and production scale.

Apple is said to be prioritising durability and display crease reduction before committing to a release. Reports claim the company is working with suppliers to develop advanced hinge technology and improved foldable OLED panels that meet its strict quality standards.

Leaked Price Suggests Ultra-Premium Positioning

One of the most discussed aspects of the leak is the expected pricing. Industry insiders suggest the foldable iPhone could start at roughly $2,000 to $2,500 (around ₹1.7 lakh to ₹2.1 lakh) depending on configuration.

If accurate, this would make the device significantly more expensive than the current iPhone Pro Max models, putting it in direct competition with premium foldables like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series and other high-end foldable smartphones.

The price tag reflects not only the foldable display technology but also Apple’s plan to position the device as a luxury flagship product.

Memory and Storage Configurations Leaked

Leaks also hint at several high-end memory and storage options for the device. The foldable iPhone, reportedly branded as the iPhone Ultra, may feature:

• 12GB RAM as the base configuration

• Storage options starting at 256GB

• Higher variants possibly reaching 512GB or even 1TB

This would align the device with Apple’s most powerful mobile hardware yet, supporting multitasking and productivity features expected from a foldable phone.

Design and Display Expectations

Although exact specifications remain under wraps, early reports suggest Apple could adopt a book-style foldable design, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold lineup. The device may feature:

• A large internal foldable OLED display

• A secondary outer screen for quick interactions

• A new hinge system designed to minimise screen creasing

• Enhanced durability compared to current foldables

Apple is also believed to be exploring advanced ultra-thin glass and improved display coatings to ensure long-term reliability.

Potential Features and Ecosystem Integration

Apple’s foldable device is expected to heavily integrate with its ecosystem. Possible features include:

• Enhanced multitasking capabilities in iOS

• Improved Apple Pencil compatibility

• Advanced AI-driven productivity tools

• Seamless connectivity with Mac, iPad, and Vision Pro

These additions could transform the device into a hybrid between a smartphone and a compact tablet, appealing to both professionals and tech enthusiasts.

Apple’s Entry Could Reshape the Foldable Market

If the rumours prove accurate, Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market could significantly influence the industry. While companies like Samsung, Huawei, and Oppo have already established foldable product lines, Apple’s involvement could drive greater adoption, improved durability standards, and stronger software optimisation.