iPhone Ultra to Challenge Galaxy Z Fold 8: The 2026 Foldable Phone Race
Apple is reportedly preparing to launch its first foldable smartphone, said to be called the iPhone Ultra, in autumn 2026. According to technology outlet 9to5Mac (13 May 2026), this high-end device will sit at the very top of the iPhone line-up, above the Pro Max series in both price and specification. At the same time, Samsung is readying the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8, making 2026 a year of intense competition in the foldable phone category.
What is the iPhone Ultra?
The iPhone Ultra is the name expected to be used by Apple for its first foldable phone. It would become the most premium model in the iPhone family, one step above the current iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Until now, Apple has been an observer in the foldable segment while Samsung, Huawei and several other brands have sold such devices for years. The arrival of the iPhone Ultra signals that Apple is finally entering this market officially. According to 9to5Mac, the report mentions six key features expected on this model, with a foldable screen design as the main highlight.
When is the iPhone Ultra expected to launch?
The report expects a launch in autumn 2026. This expectation aligns with Apple's annual schedule, which usually introduces new iPhone line-ups around September each year.
For now, Apple has not confirmed any official information about the iPhone Ultra. All details remain at the level of industry reports and rumours, so the actual date and price cannot yet be confirmed.
How does this relate to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8?
While Apple prepares the iPhone Ultra, Samsung is reportedly bringing the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8 as the latest generation of its foldable phones. According to a 9to5Google report (13 May 2026), Google's "Gemini Intelligence" update is expected to arrive on these new Samsung foldables first.
Here is a brief comparison of the two brands' approaches in 2026:
Aspect | Apple iPhone Ultra | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 / Flip 8 |
|---|---|---|
Status | Apple's first foldable phone | Next generation of an existing foldable line |
Expected launch | Autumn 2026 | 2026 (quarter not yet confirmed) |
Position in line-up | Most premium model | Flagship of the foldable segment |
Key software feature | Not confirmed by Apple | Expected to receive Gemini Intelligence first |
Note: All information in this table is based on technology media reports and has not been officially confirmed by Apple or Samsung.
What does this mean for consumers in Malaysia?
For consumers in Malaysia, the arrival of these two foldable devices means more choices in the high-end phone segment in 2026. However, foldable phones usually sit in the premium price range, so interested buyers should wait for official Malaysian pricing announcements before making a decision.
Apple and Samsung typically launch their flagship devices in global markets first before reaching Malaysia a few weeks later. Local consumers are advised to wait for official information from Apple Malaysia and Samsung Malaysia for details on availability, full specifications and pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has the iPhone Ultra been confirmed by Apple? Not yet. So far, the iPhone Ultra is based only on technology media reports and has not been officially announced by Apple.
When is the Galaxy Z Fold 8 expected to arrive? Reports expect the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 to launch in 2026, but Samsung has not confirmed an exact date.
