Apple Considering Release of Higher-End iPhone Ultra in 2024 [Gurman]

Apple is considering the addition of a new higher-end 'iPhone Ultra' in 2024, according to a new report from Mark Gurman. The new device would sit above the iPhone Pro Max in the company's smartphone line-up. Apple has already done something similar with the Apple Watch Ultra and Mac Studio Ultra.

Apple's plan to draw a greater distinction between the Pro and Pro Max has spurred speculation that the company will opt for a new top-end brand: the Ultra. Apple has already used that name for its sporty high-end smartwatch and the top version of the M1 processor. But instead of renaming the Pro Max "the Ultra," Apple could add an even higher-end iPhone above both Pro models. Internally, the company has discussed doing just that — potentially in time for the 2024 iPhone release.


It's unclear how Apple would distinguish the iPhone Ultra from the iPhone Pro Max. Some possibilities include camera improvements, a faster processor, or even a larger display. Additionally, there's the move to a portless design or even a folding design; however, Gurman thinks Apple's current focus is on larger foldable devices.

Apple has explored a foldable iPhone in the past, but I wouldn't anticipate one launching in the near future. For now, the company is focused on larger foldable devices — something the size of a laptop. If Apple were to sell a foldable iPhone, the price would clearly be higher than that of its current models. Such a device would require far more advanced technology for batteries, displays and chips. Samsung's priciest foldable — the Z Fold4 — costs as much as $2,160.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has predicted a foldable iPad in 2024 with a carbon fiber kickstand while analyst Ross Young has predicted a 20.5-inch foldable notebook in 2025.

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