Apple to Unveil First Foldable iPhone at September 9 Event

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Aug 27, 2026 ALN: Apple has set September 9 for its biggest iPhone event of the year. Normally, that would mean a predictable round of faster chips, better cameras, and new Apple Watches. This year could be very different: Apple may finally unveil an iPhone that folds open into a small tablet.

The event, carrying the tagline ‘Surprise and shine,’ will take place at Apple Park in California. It will also mark the first major product launch under new CEO John Ternus, who takes over from Tim Cook on September 1. This leadership change is significant as it marks a new chapter for the company, which has been under Tim Cook's stewardship since 2011. Ternus, who has been with Apple for over two decades, is expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovations that align with the evolving tech landscape.

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Speculation around Apple's long-rumoured foldable iPhone intensified after the event was announced. The device would give Apple its first genuinely new iPhone form factor in years, indicating a significant shift in Apple's design philosophy. The foldable phone trend has been gaining traction in the smartphone market, with several competitors already having introduced their versions. Apple's entry into this space could not only enhance its product lineup but also reshape consumer expectations regarding smartphone capabilities.

An iPhone that opens into an iPad-like screen

Apple has not officially confirmed the foldable iPhone, its specifications, or even what it will be called. However, industry insiders and analysts have been speculating about its features based on leaks and patent filings. Reports increasingly point towards a book-style device rather than a flip phone, which aligns with consumer preferences for larger screens that can still be portable.

The phone is expected to have an outer screen of around 5.5 inches for normal use. Open it, and users could get a roughly 7.8-inch display, approaching the size of an iPad mini. This size could allow for enhanced multitasking capabilities and provide a more immersive experience for media consumption and gaming. The wider internal screen would allow Apple to introduce iPad-like app layouts, giving apps more room when the device is unfolded. This could be particularly beneficial for productivity applications, enhancing the device's utility as a mobile workstation.

People who have reportedly handled early units have praised its pocketability, hinge, and larger-screen software experience, according to reports citing Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The hinge mechanism is a critical component of foldable devices, as it must balance durability and functionality while maintaining a sleek design. Apple's engineering prowess will be tested in ensuring that the device can withstand everyday use while remaining aesthetically appealing.

The device has been referred to in reports as the iPhone Ultra, although Apple has not confirmed the name. The branding of this new device could play a significant role in its market positioning, particularly if it is aimed at a premium segment of the smartphone market.

Apple's thinnest iPhone could come with compromises

Making a phone fold creates engineering problems that conventional iPhones don't have. Reports suggest Apple's foldable could measure only around 4.5mm when unfolded, requiring the company to make some unusual hardware choices. This raises questions about the device's durability and performance, as thinner devices often face challenges related to battery life and heat dissipation.

One potential compromise could be the disappearance of Face ID, a feature that has become synonymous with Apple's commitment to user privacy and security. Instead, Apple is reportedly preparing to use Touch ID built into the side button, similar to some iPads. This change could be seen as a step backward in terms of facial recognition technology, but it may be necessary to accommodate the foldable design.

The camera system may also be simpler than Apple's Pro phones. Reports point towards two 48-megapixel rear cameras — a main and ultra-wide — without a dedicated telephoto camera. This could stand out on a device expected to sit above the iPhone Pro Max in Apple's lineup, raising questions about how Apple will market the camera capabilities of this new device.

Then there's the price

A folding iPhone is unlikely to be cheap. Recent reports have placed its potential starting price at around $2,000, with some estimates suggesting configurations could reach $2,500 or more. This price range would make it one of the most expensive iPhones Apple has ever sold, positioning it as a luxury device in a market that is increasingly competitive.

However, analysts believe Apple could still find millions of buyers. IDC expects Apple to ship more than 10 million foldable iPhones in its first year and potentially account for around 40 percent of global foldable shipments in 2027. This projection indicates a strong demand for innovative devices and suggests that consumers are willing to invest in cutting-edge technology.

That matters because foldables remain a relatively small part of the smartphone business. Samsung has spent years developing the category and currently dominates it. Apple's arrival could significantly expand consumer interest at a time when IDC expects overall smartphone shipments to decline sharply while foldable shipments grow. This shift could lead to a re-evaluation of market dynamics, with Apple potentially reshaping the foldable segment as it has done with smartphones in the past.

What else could Apple launch?

The folding phone won't necessarily be the only one. Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, although reports suggest they will be more conventional upgrades. These models are likely to feature incremental improvements in processing power, camera technology, and battery life, catering to consumers who prefer traditional smartphone designs.

One unusual omission could be the standard iPhone 18. The Verge reports that Apple is expected to hold off on the regular model until 2027, when it could arrive alongside an iPhone 18e and a second-generation iPhone Air. This strategy could reflect Apple's focus on premium products and a shift in its product roadmap to emphasize high-end devices.

The September event could also bring the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4, which are anticipated to include enhancements in health tracking features and possibly new materials. Additionally, new smart-home hardware, including Apple's long-rumoured home hub, could make an appearance, aligning with the company's push into the smart home ecosystem.

Apple is also expected to announce release dates for iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS Golden Gate. These software updates will likely introduce new features and enhancements that improve user experience across Apple devices, reinforcing the company's commitment to seamless integration within its ecosystem.