Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone is finally taking shape. After the release of the ultra-thin iPhone Air in 2025, many believe that model was a stepping stone toward Apple’s true innovation — a foldable iPhone that could redefine mobile design.
iPhone Fold Rumors
1. Design
Mark Gurman from Bloomberg reports that Apple’s first foldable iPhone will feature a book-style inward folding design, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series. When unfolded, it transforms into a mini tablet, maximizing screen space while keeping Apple’s minimalist aesthetic.
2. Screen Sizes
According to The Elec, citing Mizuho Securities, Apple may equip the foldable iPhone with:
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External display: 5.38 inches
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Internal display: 7.58 inches
This is slightly smaller than earlier expectations (5.5” / 7.8”), showing Apple’s effort to balance portability and usability.
3. Display Specs
The screen will likely use Ultra Thin Glass (UTG) technology, support ProMotion 120Hz, and offer HDR and high brightness.
Apple’s signature software fluidity will likely extend to this device, ensuring apps and videos transition smoothly between folded and unfolded modes.
Will the iPhone Fold Use eSIM Only?
Apple began removing physical SIM trays in the iPhone 17 Air completely eSIM-only. The same logic applies to the foldable model:
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Space efficiency: Eliminating the SIM slot frees up internal room for hinge components and larger batteries.
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Future-forward design: Apple is moving toward a portless, seamless aesthetic across all devices.
Thus, the iPhone Fold (or iPhone Ultra) will almost certainly be eSIM-only globally.
What Will the iPhone Fold Be Called — Fold or Ultra?
Rumors suggest Apple might skip the “Fold” name altogether and go with iPhone Ultra, positioning it above the iPhone Pro Max.
The “Ultra” branding fits Apple’s naming logic — representing elite, experimental products like the Apple Watch Ultra and M3 Ultra Mac Studio.
If true, the iPhone Ultra could mark the next era of Apple flagships, blending luxury, innovation, and flexibility.
How Much Will the iPhone Fold Cost?
Early pricing forecasts place the iPhone Fold / Ultra between $1,799 and $2,299, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold6 and Google’s Pixel Fold 2. Given Apple’s typical launch pattern, the most likely debut windows are WWDC 2027 or the Fall 2027 iPhone event.
Final Thoughts
Whether Apple calls it the iPhone Fold or the iPhone Ultra, one thing is certain — it’s shaping up to be Apple’s boldest leap in mobile design. The ultra-thin iPhone Air may have been a glimpse of what’s coming next: a foldable iPhone that bridges the gap between smartphone and tablet, portability and power.
If Apple delivers what rumors promise, the iPhone Fold could redefine what a “Pro” iPhone truly means.
