Apple’s anticipated foldable smartphone, the iPhone Ultra, is projected to forgo at least five significant features that are present in the iPhone 18 Pro models, despite its expected price of around $2,000. Recent dummy models shared by industry insiders suggest that the device will not include features such as MagSafe and the Action Button.
Dummy units serve as prototypes for accessory manufacturers, allowing them to create compatible products before the official launch. The models indicate that the volume buttons will be positioned on the top edge of the device, aligned to the right, similar to the layout seen in the iPad mini. This design choice appears to optimize internal space by routing cables directly upwards, as opposed to the traditional left-side placement.
Missing Features
Notably, the absence of the Action Button suggests that the iPhone Ultra may be the first iPhone model to lack this feature, which replaced the silent switch starting with the iPhone 15 Pro. Additionally, the dummy models do not show indentations for the MagSafe magnets, indicating that the iPhone Ultra might not support this accessory standard. Given its expected thickness of just 4.5mm, it is plausible that the device’s design compromises could preclude the inclusion of MagSafe.
Authentication and Camera Specifications
Reports indicate that the iPhone Ultra may also revert to Touch ID for authentication, as the device is believed to be too thin to accommodate the TrueDepth camera array necessary for Face ID. The last flagship iPhone to feature Touch ID was the iPhone 7, making this a notable shift for Apple’s highest-end model.
In terms of camera capabilities, the iPhone Ultra is expected to have only two rear cameras: a wide and an ultra-wide, similar to the iPhone 17. Unlike the Pro models, it will not include a telephoto lens. Furthermore, it appears that the device will not have a physical SIM card slot, opting for eSIM compatibility only, akin to the iPhone Air.
Design and Pricing Considerations
The iPhone Ultra is anticipated to feature a titanium frame and a glass back, resembling the design of the iPhone Air. While there are no indications that the device will lack stereo speakers, the overall design choices may lead to compromises in functionality.
With a starting price projected at no less than $1,999, the iPhone Ultra’s missing features compared to the iPhone 17 Pro, which starts at $1,099, could lead to controversy regarding its value proposition. The device is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in the fall.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
