The upcoming iPhone Ultra is poised to significantly impact smartphone design, possibly in unexpected ways.
Speculation is rife about Apple’s first foldable device, with many anticipating an iPhone Ultra featuring a somewhat compressed book-style foldable design.
Unlike the generally square aspect ratio seen in most current foldables, such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, Apple is reportedly developing a device that resembles a compact iPad, with an open aspect ratio similar to 4:3.
Its new phone could have an unexpected effect on non-foldable phones, too.
Luke Baker
When folded, the iPhone Ultra is expected to feature a more passport-like aspect ratio, possibly a unique 14.6:10.
This represents a significant shift from existing standards, which is likely to influence smartphone design in intriguing ways.
Foldable phones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide are expected to take cues from the iPhone Ultra, even though they may hit the market earlier.
Apple’s influence extends beyond foldable models, with potential implications for non-foldable phones as well.
Long time no see, shorty
We might witness a return to older, shorter screen aspect ratios.
The prevailing trend for both foldable and non-foldable phones is a 19.5:9 aspect ratio, characterized by tall, narrow screens that maximize display area while remaining easy to hold.
A decade ago, devices like the iPhone 8 and Samsung Galaxy S7 featured a more compact 16:9 aspect ratio, and they were not alone in this design choice.
Successful launch of the iPhone Ultra might encourage manufacturers to revert to similar proportions.
Don’t be surprised, then, if 2027 and 2028 see the return of a smartphone format last seen around the time of the first Trump inauguration.
Rolling back the years
Reports from China indicate that Huawei is developing a phone with a shorter 16:9 or 16:10 display.
The company appears to be adapting its Huawei Pura X foldable design—another response to the iPhone Ultra leaks—into a non-foldable model featuring a shorter screen.
Though Huawei’s global influence has waned, it remains a dominant smartphone brand in China. If Huawei experiments with a 16:9 non-foldable phone, other major brands might follow suit.
Huawei
The success of the iPhone Ultra, rumored to start at $2,000, may determine its mainstream acceptance.
Historically, Apple’s moves have set trends in the smartphone industry, as evidenced by the numerous iPhone 17-inspired designs.
Therefore, it wouldn’t be surprising if 2027 and 2028 witness the revival of a smartphone format that was last popular around the time of the first Trump inauguration.
