While preparations for Apple’s first foldable iPhone model continue, the first evaluations from the few people who have had the opportunity to use the device have begun to emerge. According to the information provided by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the phone, which is stated to be called iPhone Ultra within the company, receives positive comments, especially for its folded dimensions, the feel of the hinge mechanism and its durability. It is said that iPad-like application layouts prepared for the large internal screen are among the highlights of the device. On the other hand, Apple’s lack of a telephoto camera on the phone despite its high price level may be one of the most debatable shortcomings of the iPhone Ultra. Hardware choices in the first model show that Apple gave up some features in order to prepare a foldable phone as thin as possible.
According to the information provided by Gurman in the Power On newsletter, people who tried the iPhone Ultra were satisfied with the design of the device, which makes it easy to carry in the pocket. The hinge, which is one of the most important components in terms of long-term use in foldable phones, also receives positive evaluations on first impressions. It seems that Apple has focused on both the feeling of use and durability in the hinge mechanism. The large screen that appears when the phone is turned on offers a different way of using the application layouts seen on the iPad, rather than simply enlarging the existing interface of the iPhone. This approach can make the foldable structure more meaningful in daily use, especially for users who want to see more content on the same screen.
iPhone Ultra camera system will come without telephoto lens
It seems that the advantages of the large internal screen will not be limited to applications only. Gurman states that the iPhone Ultra offers a successful experience when used as a large viewfinder for the camera, as well as for productivity applications, video watching and games. However, the camera hardware is not expected to include all the options Apple offers in its Pro class iPhone models. According to current information, there will be a dual camera system on the back consisting of a 48-megapixel main camera and an ultra-wide-angle camera. The absence of a telephoto camera can be considered a significant concession, especially for a phone that is expected to be priced above $ 2,000.
This omission may affect the preferences of users who prioritize camera features and expect Apple’s most expensive iPhone to also offer the most comprehensive camera system. If the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max offer advanced zoom options, the difference between the two product groups will be more visible. However, the foldable screen can offer a different advantage by providing a larger preview area when taking photos and videos. It seems that Apple preferred to keep the thickness of the device under control rather than increasing the number of cameras here. Therefore, the strong point of the iPhone Ultra on the camera side may be the usability of the large screen during shooting, rather than its lens variety.
It is stated that another compromise made to preserve the thinness of the phone will be seen in the biometric verification system. It is claimed that Apple will use Touch ID integrated into the power button on the side instead of Face ID located under the screen. Thanks to this choice, it is stated that the iPhone Ultra can be kept at a thickness of approximately 4.5 mm when open. Since Face ID has been one of the main features of the iPhone family for years, the change may seem like a step backwards at first glance. However, the fingerprint reader placed on the side button may offer a more practical authentication method for some users when using the phone on the table or at different angles.
Information about the screen dimensions indicates that Apple is working on a large, book-shaped opening design. It is stated that the iPhone Ultra will have a screen of approximately 5.5 inches on the outside and an internal screen of approximately 7.8 inches when the device is opened. Thus, while the phone remains relatively compact when closed, it will approach the size of a small tablet when opened. These metrics can allow applications to take advantage of two-column or larger interfaces. Particularly positive initial comments regarding iPad-like app layouts indicate that Apple has adapted the iOS interface, as well as the hardware, to the new screen format.
Apple’s first foldable iPhone will be introduced at the event to be held around September 9, along with the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, according to current information. It is claimed that the starting price may be around $2,000, and the $2,500 limit may be exceeded for higher storage options. This pricing would make the iPhone Ultra one of the most expensive options in Apple’s phone portfolio. Although first user impressions seem positive regarding the hinge, portability and large screen software, giving up the telephoto camera is a distinct disadvantage for a device at this level. The overall balance of the iPhone Ultra will become clearer when we see in more detail how Apple has chosen between the usability advantages of the foldable screen and the thinness and camera hardware.
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