Huawei and Xiaomi are launching new foldable phones days before Apple's event

Apple is set to unveil its first foldable smartphone at its September 9 launch event, marking a major shift in the company's long-standing design philosophy. The foldable iPhone, codenamed "iPhone Ultra," is expected to start at around $2,000, making it significantly pricier than previous models but less costly than Apple’s Vision Pro headset, which retails for $3,500. This move comes nearly five years after Samsung introduced its first foldable phone, signaling Apple’s entry into a rapidly evolving market. Sources suggest the foldable iPhone will offer a 5.5-inch cover display that expands to 7.8 inches when unfolded, resembling a compact tablet. Early testers have praised the device for its premium build and seamless folding mechanism, noting that it fits comfortably in a pocket despite its larger size. The phone is also expected to retain Apple’s signature sleek design while incorporating a dual-lens rear camera system, omitting a telephoto lens to accommodate the foldable form factor. MagSafe technology will remain part of the device, allowing for convenient wireless charging and accessory integration. However, Apple is reportedly replacing Face ID with a side-mounted Touch ID sensor, a change that may require users to adjust their habits. Despite this, the phone will continue to run iOS, supported by Apple’s latest chips, which are also powering the company’s budget MacBook Neo laptop. Multitasking capabilities will improve with the foldable design, enabling side-by-side app usage on the expanded screen. One challenge Apple faces is minimizing the visibility of the screen’s crease, a common issue with current foldable devices. Reports indicate the company has developed a display that reduces this visual flaw. In addition to the foldable model, Apple is expected to release the standard iPhone 18 and 18 Pro variants, following a departure from its usual launch order. This strategy allows the company to cater to both premium and budget-conscious customers. Meanwhile, rumors hint at potential upgrades to AirPods and HomePods, possibly including features such as built-in cameras.