Apple’s long-rumored foldable smartphone, widely referred to as the iPhone Ultra or iPhone Fold, is expected to debut in autumn 2026 alongside the upcoming iPhone 18 series, according to fresh leaks and industry sources.
Earlier reports suggested that Apple had delayed the device, but more recent information indicates that the project remains on schedule. Well-known tipster Ice Universe recently shared an unofficial image on social media platform X showing the rumored iPhone Ultra alongside Apple’s incoming CEO John Ternus. The image was captioned “2026 iPhone autumn new product launch,” reinforcing speculation that the foldable device will appear during Apple’s annual fall event.
Although the exact launch date has not been confirmed, Apple traditionally unveils new iPhones in September. If the pattern continues, the event could take place in the second or third week of September 2026. The unveiling would also mark the first major product announcement under John Ternus, who is set to take over as Apple’s CEO on September 1, 2026.
Recent leaks have also provided a closer look at the design and size of Apple’s first foldable smartphone. Dummy units of the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Ultra have surfaced online, allowing observers to compare the dimensions of the three devices. Additional images show how the foldable iPhone appears when opened, revealing a tablet-like form factor similar to the iPad mini.
Newly leaked schematics indicate that the iPhone Ultra may measure about 9.23mm when folded, making it slimmer than earlier rumors suggesting a 9.6mm thickness. When the camera bump is included, the maximum thickness could reach approximately 13mm.
The same leak also suggests that Apple may launch the foldable device in two color options: black and silver. While Apple has yet to officially confirm the product, the increasing number of leaks and design renders suggests that the company is moving closer to introducing its first foldable iPhone to the market.
If the rumors prove accurate, the iPhone Ultra could represent Apple’s biggest design shift in years as the company enters the rapidly growing foldable smartphone segment.