en.Wedoany.com Reported - Apple Inc. is accelerating the development of its first foldable iPhone, which may be named "iPhone Ultra" and is expected to launch in September 2026.

According to multiple media reports, Apple may reveal detailed information about the product at its annual hardware event this fall. Bloomberg analyst Mark Gurman predicts the most likely release date is September 8 or September 9. Details in the iOS 27 developer beta code almost confirm that Apple is preparing software for devices with folded states and various angles.

One of the device's main selling points is integrating iPad Mini functionality into a device that fits in a pocket or handbag, catering to power users and multitaskers. Nikkei reported that Apple has informed suppliers to prepare production of approximately 10 million iPhone Ultra units, up from the previous forecast of about 8 million units. Due to increased device complexity and a global RAM shortage, the official launch date may be delayed to the end of the year, with wider availability expected in November, December, or early 2027.

In terms of pricing, analysts Ming-Chi Kuo and Gurman generally agree that Apple's first foldable phone will cost at least $2,000, with some research suggesting it could approach $2,399. This is more expensive than existing competitors such as the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold ($1,799) and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 ($2,000).

The main difference between the iPhone Ultra and other book-style foldable phones is its wider body, similar to the original Pixel Fold design. According to Ming-Chi Kuo, the device will feature a foldable main display of approximately 7.8 inches and an external screen of 5.5 inches. The unfolded thickness is expected to be 4.5 to 4.8 mm, and when folded, about 9 to 9.5 mm. Additionally, the iPhone Ultra is expected to have two rear cameras (wide-angle and ultra-wide-angle lenses) and a hinge using 3D printing technology. Bloomberg reported that Apple has chosen a new display technology that reduces creases but does not eliminate them entirely.

Notably, Face ID may not be part of the iPhone Ultra, with Apple instead opting to rely on Touch ID through a fingerprint sensor built into the phone's lock button. The main reason is that components like the Face ID infrared facial scanner could increase device thickness and reduce screen space. On the iOS front, Bloomberg stated that when the phone's main display is open, the system will offer a more iPad-like layout, including split-screen app support and optimized app resolutions and aspect ratios, but the device will not support iPadOS.

According to a supply chain report, Apple is testing large-capacity batteries ranging from 5,400 to 5,800 mAh, likely the highest capacity batteries ever in any iPhone, far exceeding the 4,400 mAh battery of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.