Apple’s First Foldable iPhone Expected to Resemble iPad Mini When Unfolded

• June 15, 2026

Apple’s First Foldable iPhone Expected to Resemble iPad Mini When Unfolded

Apple is reportedly preparing to enter the foldable smartphone market with its first device, which is believed to be called the “iPhone Ultra.” This upcoming model is said to feature a unique form factor that sets it apart not only from existing iPhones but also from most foldable devices currently available on the market.

According to recent reports from Bloomberg and 9to5Mac, the device will fold into a relatively short and compact shape, making it pocket-friendly and distinct from the typical elongated foldable phones widely used today. When unfolded, the phone’s screen will expand to dimensions comparable to those of the iPad mini, offering users a larger, tablet-like experience.

This design approach positions the iPhone Ultra as a hybrid between a smartphone and a tablet, aligning its user interface with that of the iPad. The implication is that software adaptations will accompany the hardware to optimize the user experience on the larger, unfolded display.

The design marks a notable shift for Apple, which has thus far focused on traditional slab-style smartphones and tablets without folding mechanisms. The move toward a foldable device suggests an effort to combine portability with enhanced screen real estate, responding to evolving consumer preferences and developments in flexible display technology.

Despite the emerging details, some elements such as pricing, specific hardware specifications, and release timelines remain undisclosed. Apple has not officially confirmed the existence or naming of the foldable device, leaving much to be revealed in forthcoming announcements.

The entry of Apple into the foldable smartphone category could intensify competition within the sector, which has seen various approaches from established players and newcomers alike. The iPhone Ultra’s reported design, distinct from the typical vertical or horizontal fold mechanisms, may offer a new perspective on how foldable devices integrate into daily use.

As foldable technology matures, Apple appears poised to leverage its software ecosystem to deliver a cohesive experience that bridges smartphones and tablets. This strategy could influence industry trends and consumer expectations in the years ahead.

Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone, reportedly named ‘iPhone Ultra,’ will unfold to a form factor similar to the iPad mini, marking a new design direction.