In the competitive world of foldable smartphones, Apple has long been the subject of intense speculation. The latest development comes not from an official announcement, but from a controversial source. Despite facing a lawsuit from Apple, prominent leaker Jon Prosser has released detailed renders and specifications for what he claims is Apple's upcoming foldable iPhone, dubbed the "iPhone Fold" or potentially "iPhone Ultra." This leak provides a comprehensive look at the device's purported design, key features aimed at tackling industry pain points, and its expected market positioning, all while being mired in legal controversy.
The Source and the Controversy
The information originates from Jon Prosser, a well-known figure in the tech leak community. His latest reveal is particularly audacious given the ongoing legal battle with Apple. The company filed a lawsuit against Prosser and an associate in July 2025, accusing them of conspiring to obtain a prototype iPhone development unit from an Apple employee. Apple alleges they used this device, running an engineering version of iOS 26, to create and publicize renders of unreleased software and hardware. Prosser has denied these specific allegations, stating he did not conspire to access any device and was unaware of the original source of the information he previously shared. This backdrop adds a layer of intrigue to the current leak, raising questions about the veracity of the details while highlighting the high-stakes cat-and-mouse game between leakers and one of the world's most secretive companies.
Context of the Leak: The information comes from leaker Jon Prosser, who is currently defendant in a lawsuit filed by Apple in July 2025. Apple alleges he conspired to obtain a prototype device. Prosser denies the specific allegations of conspiracy.
Design and the Battle Against the Crease
According to Prosser's claims, Apple has settled on a book-style foldable design, similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series, after evaluating multiple internal concepts. The most significant claim, however, revolves around Apple's alleged solution to the most persistent issue plaguing foldables: the visible crease on the inner display. The leak suggests Apple will employ a two-pronged mechanical approach. First, a metal plate will be integrated beneath the flexible inner screen. This plate is designed to distribute folding pressure evenly across the display's surface, preventing the localized stress that typically causes a permanent crease. Second, the hinge mechanism itself is said to utilize liquid metal, a strong, amorphous alloy, which could contribute to a smoother folding action and further mitigate crease formation. If true, this would represent a notable engineering advancement in consumer foldable technology.
Key Claimed Innovation: The leak asserts Apple will use a metal plate under the inner screen and a liquid metal hinge to evenly distribute folding pressure and eliminate the visible crease common in foldable phones.
Purported Specifications and Features
The leaked specifications paint a picture of a premium device. The inner display is claimed to measure 7.8 inches, with a 5.5-inch cover screen for use when the device is folded. In its closed state, the phone is reportedly 9mm thick, making it slightly thicker than the alleged 8.75mm profile of the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro Max. The camera system is said to comprise four sensors: one front-facing camera on the outer screen, another on the inner display, and a dual-camera array on the rear. In a surprising departure from recent iPhone design, the leak states the device will forgo Face ID (面容 ID) entirely, relying instead on a Touch ID (触控 ID) sensor integrated into the power button. Other claimed internals include Apple's second-generation in-house modem, the C2 chip, and a high-density battery. The device is expected to launch in classic Black and White color options.
Alleged iPhone Fold Specifications (Per Leak):
- Design: Book-style fold (similar to Samsung Galaxy Z Fold)
- Displays: 7.8-inch inner foldable screen, 5.5-inch outer cover screen
- Dimensions: 9mm thick when folded
- Cameras: 4 total (Inner front camera, Outer front camera, Dual rear cameras)
- Biometrics: Touch ID in power button (No Face ID)
- Chip: Apple's second-generation custom modem (C2)
- Battery: High-density cell
- Colors: Black, White
- Estimated Price: USD 2,000 - USD 2,500
Market Positioning and Legal Shadow
With a purported starting price between USD 2,000 and USD 2,500 (approximately CNY 14,033 to 17,541), the so-called iPhone Fold is positioned squarely in the ultra-premium segment, potentially justifying the rumored "iPhone Ultra" moniker. This price point places it significantly above current flagship smartphones and aligns it with high-end foldables from competitors. However, the shadow of Apple's lawsuit looms large over these revelations. The company's aggressive legal action underscores its severe stance on protecting intellectual property related to unannounced products. It serves as a stark reminder that while such leaks generate excitement and speculation, they exist in a legally gray area, potentially based on information obtained through disputed means. The final product, if it exists, may differ substantially from these early renders by the time it reaches consumers.