Technology
Reports indicate Apple's upcoming foldable phone may omit standard features
Leaked details and analyst reports suggest the rumored high-priced device could compromise on camera hardware, biometrics, and charging standards.
The short version
- Apple is reportedly preparing to reveal its first foldable smartphone, potentially called the iPhone Ultra, with an estimated price exceeding $2,000.
- Unofficial reports suggest the thin design could force the omission of features such as Face ID, MagSafe charging, a telephoto camera, and physical SIM slots.
- It remains uncertain how consumers will respond to these potential hardware trade-offs relative to the device's high cost.
Key facts
- Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable smartphone within weeks, with rumors pointing to a price above $2,000 and potential branding as the iPhone Ultra.[9to5Mac]
- Leaked dummy units and reports suggest the phone will feature a 48MP main camera and a 48MP ultra-wide camera, omitting a telephoto lens.[9to5Mac]
- To accommodate an ultra-thin chassis, the device reportedly replaces Face ID with Touch ID integrated into the side button.[9to5Mac]
- According to sources including Ming-Chi Kuo and Bloomberg, the foldable iPhone will rely exclusively on eSIM technology worldwide.[9to5Mac]
- Reported design leaks indicate the model lacks an Action button, a traditional mute switch, and MagSafe magnetic wireless charging support.[9to5Mac]
What remains uncertain
- Apple has not officially confirmed the device's features, official name, pricing, or product lineup trade-offs.[9to5Mac]