Apple's iPhone Ultra Foldable Expected to Launch Next Week, Priced Over $2,000

Apple’s highly anticipated iPhone Ultra foldable is set to be unveiled next week at the company’s ‘Surprise and Shine’ event. Mark Gurman of Bloomberg reports that the device is expected to carry a hefty price tag, potentially exceeding $2,000, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra which starts at $2,099.

A Status Symbol, Not a Daily Driver

Gurman suggests the iPhone Ultra is positioned as a premium ‘status symbol’ device, rather than a mainstream smartphone. He advises potential buyers to carefully consider the cost, estimating that spending more than $2,000 on a phone isn't justifiable unless the device offers truly exceptional features.

Key Features and Trade-offs

The foldable will feature a 7.8-inch inner folding display, nearly the size of an iPad Mini, and utilize advanced liquid metal for hinge durability. Apple is reportedly focusing on optimizing apps for the foldable form factor, addressing concerns about compatibility with popular apps like Instagram. While the crease in the display is expected to be less noticeable than competitors’, it won’t be completely eliminated. Gurman anticipates the device will excel in tasks like browsing, gaming, and video playback, and boasts a larger camera viewfinder.

Price and Availability

Despite the high price point, the iPhone Ultra is anticipated to be more durable than existing foldable phones thanks to its liquid metal hinge. However, some users have expressed concerns about the lack of a telephoto lens and potential app optimization issues.