Apple has recently wrapped up one of its biggest annual events, WWDC 2026. The Cupertino-based tech giant gave Apple fans a glimpse of the software improvements coming across its ecosystem.
This included the iPhone, as the company unveiled the all-new iOS 27, which is set to launch later this year. While the stable version of the upcoming operating system is still a few months away, Apple has provided select users early access through its Developer Beta Program. Soon after iOS 27 was released, reports began surfacing about hidden references within the software that appear to support a future foldable iPhone.
Although Apple has not officially announced a foldable iPhone, several clues embedded in the new software point in that direction. Here’s everything you need to know about Apple’s first foldable device that is also rumoured to be known as the Apple iPhone Ultra.
iOS 27 code hints at a foldable iPhone
According to the tipster Sam Henri Gold, the new code discovered in iOS 27 includes references such as ‘foldState’ and ‘angleDegrees’. These terms are closely linked to a foldable device, and as the name suggests, it may be used to give the OS a clear instruction about what to do when the device is folded or bent at a certain angle.
The developer also found a new framework key that can identify the total number of built-in displays on a device. The absence of these references in iOS 26 makes it even more interesting that they appear in iOS 27.
Do note that 9to5Mac have also confirmed the existence of the above mentioned in the iOS 27 code.
Apple preparation for flexible devices
Another thing to note is Apple’s message to developers earlier this year. Addressing the developing community in the Platforms State of the Union session, the executives encouraged the developers not to design their applications for specific screen sizes and orientations. Instead, they encouraged them to build apps that can adjust smoothly across a dynamic range of sizes and aspect ratios.
The company also introduced support for resizable iPhone apps in iPhone Mirroring and on the iPad. Developers can now test apps using a new resizable iOS simulator in Xcode, helping them prepare software for devices with different display formats.
The focus on flexible app layouts has fuelled speculation that Apple is getting its software ecosystem ready for foldable hardware. A foldable iPhone would require apps to adapt instantly as users switch between the outer display and a larger internal screen.
Apple foldable iPhone launch timeline
Industry reports suggest the device could launch in September 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. It is expected to feature a book-style design with a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch cover screen.
Apple foldable iPhone specs and price (Expected)
Not only that, but rumours also suggest that the device may launch with a titanium frame, a liquid metal hinge, dual rear cameras and Apple’s A20 chip. Early reports also suggest that the device could land in the Indian market with a price tag of somewhere between Rs 1.75 lakh and Rs 2 lakh. If the reports are to be trusted, then the iPhone Ultra could become the company’s most expensive iPhone ever.