iOS 27 beta references dual batteries, hinting at Apple’s foldable iPhone

The latest iOS 27 beta appears to contain another clue that Apple is preparing for the arrival of its first foldable iPhone, with new code referencing a device featuring two internal batteries.

According to Macworld, new Battery Health strings discovered in the latest beta refer to multiple batteries rather than a single battery. One string reads, “The batteries in this iPhone are performing as expected,” suggesting iOS is being prepared to monitor and report the health of more than one battery.

The publication speculates the new wording is intended for Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone, which multiple reports suggest will feature two separate battery cells. Previous rumours have claimed the device will use battery cells with capacities of 1,921mAh and 2,962mAh, providing a combined capacity of approximately 4,883mAh.

Dual-battery designs are common in book-style foldable smartphones, with one battery positioned in each half of the device to make better use of the available internal space. Apple’s reported implementation would follow a similar approach.

Apple is widely expected to enter the foldable smartphone market in late 2026 with its first-ever foldable iPhone, ending years of speculation about whether the company would eventually release a rival to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series.

Current rumours suggest the device will feature a book-style design that folds horizontally, opening into a tablet-like form factor. Reports point to a 7.8-inch internal display alongside an external display measuring between 5.3 and 5.5 inches, allowing it to function like a traditional iPhone when closed while offering an iPad mini-sized display when opened.

One of the biggest focuses is expected to be the display crease. Multiple reports have claimed Apple is developing a redesigned hinge mechanism intended to make the crease far less noticeable than those found on current foldable smartphones. The hinge itself is also expected to use premium materials, including titanium and stainless steel, to improve durability while keeping the device as thin as possible.

The foldable iPhone is also rumoured to be exceptionally thin, with reports suggesting it could measure between 4.5mm and 4.8mm when unfolded, and around 9mm to 9.5mm when folded.

To maximise internal space, Apple is reportedly expected to replace Face ID with Touch ID integrated into the power button, similar to the system used on several iPad models. The device is also expected to feature a dual-camera system rather than the more advanced camera hardware found on Apple’s Pro Max models.

While many have referred to the device as the “iPhone Fold,” recent reports have suggested Apple may instead adopt the “iPhone Ultra” branding. Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station has previously claimed Apple is considering that name for the device.

Most analysts expect Apple’s first foldable iPhone to launch in late 2026, likely alongside the iPhone 18 lineup. Pricing is expected to start between $2,000 and $2,500, making it one of the most expensive consumer products Apple has ever released.