Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone, reportedly referred to as the iPhone Ultra, during the company’s September 9, 2026 event.
Despite expectations that the device could cost around $2,000 or more, recent reports suggest it may lack several features expected to be available on the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
Why Could the iPhone Ultra Miss Some Features?
The potential compromises are reportedly linked to Apple’s focus on creating an extremely thin foldable design.
Reports suggest the device could feature a titanium frame and glass back, creating additional challenges when it comes to fitting internal components into the limited space available in a foldable smartphone.
Telephoto Camera Could Be Missing
One of the major features the iPhone Ultra may lack is a Telephoto camera.
Reports indicate that Apple’s foldable phone could feature only two rear cameras instead of the triple-camera system found on Pro models, with a main Wide camera and an Ultra Wide camera.
This approach would help Apple reduce the number of components while maintaining the phone’s thin profile.
No Physical SIM Card Slot
The iPhone Ultra is also expected to arrive without a physical SIM card slot, relying instead on eSIM technology.
The move would be consistent with Apple’s broader shift toward eSIM and could also help the company save internal space in the foldable design.
Could the Action Button Be Missing?
Reports and leaked dummy units also suggest that the foldable iPhone could omit the Action Button.
The unusual button arrangement is believed to be linked to Apple’s efforts to maximize internal space, although the final design will not be confirmed until the official announcement.
Face ID Could Be Replaced by Touch ID
Another major potential change is the absence of Face ID.
The phone’s extremely thin design could make it difficult to accommodate the TrueDepth hardware required for Face ID. As a result, Apple may use Touch ID integrated into the side button instead.
The device is still expected to feature front-facing cameras for both its inner and outer displays.
What About Stereo Speakers?
Stereo speakers have also been discussed as a possible compromise because of the similarities between the rumored foldable iPhone and Apple’s ultra-thin iPhone Air.
However, recent reports do not confirm that the iPhone Ultra will lack stereo speakers. The feature therefore remains uncertain rather than confirmed as missing.
Expected iPhone Ultra Price
Despite these possible compromises, the foldable iPhone is expected to be one of Apple’s most expensive smartphones.
Current reports suggest a starting price of around $2,000, while some estimates place the device between $2,000 and $2,500.
The high price is expected to reflect the cost of the foldable display technology and Apple’s premium positioning for the new device.
When Will Apple Reveal Its First Foldable iPhone?
Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone at its event on September 9, 2026, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
However, Apple has yet to officially confirm the device’s name, specifications or final pricing, meaning the reported missing features remain expectations ahead of the official announcement.
What will Apple’s first foldable iPhone be called?
Reports suggest it could be called the iPhone Ultra, although Apple has not officially confirmed the name.
How much could the iPhone Ultra cost?
Current estimates suggest a starting price of around $2,000, with some reports placing it as high as $2,500.
Will the iPhone Ultra have a Telephoto camera?
Reports suggest the foldable iPhone may lack a Telephoto camera and instead use two rear cameras.
Will the iPhone Ultra support Face ID?
Current reports suggest Apple may replace Face ID with Touch ID because of the device’s ultra-thin design.
When will Apple unveil the iPhone Ultra?
Apple is expected to reveal its first foldable iPhone at its September 9, 2026 event.
