Code in the iOS 27 Beta Points Straight to Apple’s Foldable iPhone Ultra

Photo credit: Sam Henri Gold
Exploration of the iOS 27 developer beta has turned up several strings of code that seem built specifically for a folding iPhone. These references include terms for tracking foldState along with the mechanical angle of a hinge measured in degrees. Such details would allow the operating system to understand exactly how the device is positioned at any given time, potentially unlocking new ways for apps to respond when the screens sit at different angles.

The latest iPhone beta has a new feature that reveals the total number of built-in displays. Most iPhones just have one screen, so this isn’t especially useful. However, analysts say it was not included in the most recent version, iOS 26, indicating that Apple is undoubtedly developing the software for the hardware. Just a few days ago, at the Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple developers were debating some significant modifications targeted at allowing apps to easily handle a broad range of screen sizes and shapes, which is exactly what you’d need for a phone that can fold out into a larger tablet-style display.

That type of R&D is completely compatible with the concept of a folding iPhone, which many people have long speculated about, because it would require flexible display technology and a highly robust hinge mechanism to function correctly. Mark Gurman of Bloomberg investigated the beta files and determined that developers are working on the equipment we’ve all been waiting for. Apple has faced a lot of criticism for how they will make this work. The most recent beta files still don’t have all of the answers about size, pricing, or features, but they do give us some tangible information on which to base our expectations. Some have dubbed this unknown gadget the iPhone Ultra, although Apple has yet to reveal its official name. Expect them to provide further specifics later this year, when they generally announce new iPhones and the latest version of iOS.

Of course, there are still a few engineering challenges to overcome, such as how to make the item thin enough to carry around all day while also being robust enough to withstand repeated folding. Early predictions put this item’s beginning price at well above $2,000. Even yet, the fact that the capabilities are now in beta indicates that the project is likely considerably further along than we previously thought. As further testing is performed, we may gain a better understanding of what Apple is actually planning here.
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