Apple event: iPhone Ultra expected to redefine foldables with ultra-thin design

Apple is set to unveil its first foldable iPhone at an upcoming event, with the device expected to redefine the foldable phone market. Rumored to be called the iPhone Ultra, this product is expected to feature a wider, 5.5-inch OLED outer display that folds out into a 7.8-inch OLED screen when unfolded. According to MacRumors, the design is expected to closely resemble an iPad mini, with Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8 serving as a similar reference point in terms of dimensions.

Apple is also rumored to be striving for a remarkable level of thinness, with the Ultra aiming for a mere 4.5mm in thickness when unfolded, making it the thinnest iPhone ever produced. However, achieving this ultra-thin form factor may present challenges, as Apple's past attempts at slim designs have often come with trade-offs. For instance, the iPhone Air, released last year, suffered from performance issues due to its ultra-thin design, including a weaker battery that required an external battery solution.

Apple even attempted a similar approach with the original MacBook Air in 2008, which, despite its thinness, struggled with overheating, a small hard drive, and high pricing. The modern MacBook Air, while expensive, offers superior performance. As Apple prepares to reveal the iPhone Ultra, the central question remains whether the new A20 Pro chip can overcome historical trends and successfully balance extreme thinness with high performance.