Apple’s rumored iPhone Ultra and MacBook Ultra could reshape iPad’s

Apple is expected to unveil two new devices—an iPhone Ultra with a foldable screen and a MacBook Ultra that adds touch capability—to the product lineup later this year, and analysts say both could erode the iPad’s unique position in Apple’s ecosystem [2].

Key takeaways

• The iPhone Ultra is rumored to be Apple’s first foldable phone, expanding to a size comparable to an iPad mini when unfolded [2][3].
• The MacBook Ultra is expected to be a refreshed MacBook Pro that incorporates a touchscreen, a feature currently exclusive to the iPad [2][3].
• Both products could blur the lines between phone, tablet, and laptop, challenging the iPad’s role as the middle device [3].
• Early versions of the iPhone Ultra are likely to target premium users, but larger foldables could eventually replace smaller iPads for many tasks [3].
• Apple may need to redefine the iPad with stronger multitasking and clearer positioning for creatives and students to stay relevant [3].

Foldable iPhone Ultra: A Mini‑Tablet in a Pocket

Rumors suggest the iPhone Ultra will debut as Apple’s first foldable smartphone, folding down to a compact, iPhone‑sized form factor and unfolding to a display similar in size to the iPad mini [2][3]. This design could give users a device that combines the portability of a phone with the tablet‑like experience of an iPad mini, potentially reducing demand for the smaller iPad models. The article notes that while the initial Ultra will be a niche, early‑adopter product, the price of foldable devices is expected to decline over time, making them more attractive to a broader audience [3]. If Apple continues to expand the foldable lineup, larger versions could further encroach on the iPad’s territory, especially for casual browsing, media consumption, and light productivity.

Touchscreen MacBook Ultra: Threatening iPad’s Touch Advantage

The second rumored product, the MacBook Ultra, is described as a refreshed MacBook Pro that adds a touchscreen to a traditionally non‑touch laptop [2][3]. By bringing touch interaction to a full‑size laptop, Apple would remove one of the iPad’s primary differentiators—its touch‑first interface. The article argues that a touchscreen MacBook Ultra could appeal to users who want laptop performance combined with tablet‑style control, potentially drawing away users who currently rely on the iPad for productivity and creative work [3]. The MacBook Ultra is also expected to feature OLED displays and improved touch response, further enhancing its hybrid appeal.

Why it matters

If Apple proceeds with both the iPhone Ultra and MacBook Ultra, the iPad could face competition from both ends of the device spectrum. A foldable iPhone that functions like a mini‑tablet may satisfy users who currently purchase the iPad mini for portability, while a touchscreen MacBook could attract professionals who value both power and touch input. Analysts suggest Apple will need to reinforce the iPad’s unique value—perhaps by expanding multitasking capabilities, focusing on creative and educational markets, and emphasizing its balance of portability and screen size—to maintain relevance [3]. The rollout timeline for these products has not been confirmed, and Apple has not provided official details, leaving the exact impact on iPad sales uncertain.