With the debut of Apple’s first foldable iPhone now believed to be only months away, anticipation among technology enthusiasts continues to intensify. After years of speculation and rumors, what is widely regarded as one of Apple’s most secretive and ambitious projects appears to be nearing completion.

Apple has long been known for commanding the attention of the entire industry with every major product move, and this time is no different. Although foldable smartphones have existed for years under the leadership of companies such as Samsung, Huawei and Honor, the arrival of a foldable iPhone is widely viewed as a milestone that could reshape the market.

A steady stream of leaks and reports in recent months has only amplified interest in the device.

What could the iPhone Ultra bring?

According to leaked information, the foldable iPhone Ultra is expected to adopt a book-style folding design similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series, though with a wider display aspect ratio.

The device is also rumored to run a version of iOS optimized specifically for larger foldable screens, enabling more effective split-screen multitasking. Such functionality has long been one of the most requested features among users hoping for a foldable device within Apple’s ecosystem.

In terms of hardware, the phone is expected to feature a dual-camera rear system rather than the triple-camera setup found on current iPhone Pro models. More notably, Apple is reportedly planning to reintroduce Touch ID through a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button, replacing Face ID. Industry observers view this as a more practical solution for current foldable designs.

Sources also suggest the device will be available in silver, white and indigo blue. However, the most closely watched aspect remains the display. Apple is believed to have invested substantial resources into minimizing the crease along the fold, aiming to deliver a more seamless visual experience than many existing foldable devices.

If these reports prove accurate, the iPhone Ultra could feature one of the most refined foldable displays ever brought to market.

Consumer excitement continues to grow

Leaked images of protective cases and design components have already revealed much of the device’s appearance, giving consumers a relatively clear picture of Apple’s first foldable phone ahead of its official unveiling.

Recent online surveys indicate exceptionally high levels of interest. Around 61% of respondents said they were extremely excited to see what Apple would deliver with the iPhone Ultra when it is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max later this year.

More than 20% of respondents said they were not particularly interested in foldable smartphones but still intended to closely follow Apple’s product launch. The result highlights the company’s unique influence, as even consumers outside the target audience remain curious about how Apple plans to address long-standing foldable phone challenges.

Only about 19% of participants expressed little interest, saying they were indifferent to whether the iPhone Ultra succeeds or fails in the marketplace.

Reasons for caution remain

Despite the enthusiasm, analysts continue to urge caution.

One reason is that the device represents a first-generation product. Technology history has repeatedly shown that first-generation devices often face challenges and compromises that are refined in later iterations. Even Apple, known for its product optimization expertise, is not immune to such risks.

Recent reports suggest development and manufacturing have experienced multiple delays due to challenges involving the display and hinge mechanism. Some sources have also claimed that prototypes exhibited minor noises or slight looseness after extended use.

Another issue concerns the display crease. Although Apple has reportedly spent years attempting to minimize it, sources indicate that some degree of creasing remains. While it may be less noticeable than on competing devices, it is unlikely to be completely invisible.

Pricing is also expected to be a major factor. Many analysts predict the iPhone Ultra could become the most expensive iPhone ever released, carrying a price significantly higher than today’s Pro Max models. Such positioning would likely make it a product aimed primarily at premium customers rather than the mass market.

Even so, Apple’s influence is already being felt before the device has officially launched.

Historically, whenever Apple enters a new product category, the market experiences a surge of interest. While the company does not always dominate sales immediately, it often plays a pivotal role in accelerating innovation and bringing emerging technologies closer to mainstream consumers.

The same dynamic may be unfolding in the foldable smartphone segment. Regardless of its eventual commercial performance, the iPhone Ultra has already established itself as one of the most eagerly awaited technology products of the year.

Hai Phong