Apple is reportedly considering launching a new top-of-the-line iPhone alongside its upcoming Pro and Pro Max models, which could be called the iPhone Ultra. One designer has taken it upon himself to imagine what such a device might look like.
German industrial designer Jonas Daehnert has created this impressive concept designed, combining design elements from the Apple Watch Ultra with a smaller iPhone Pro model, which he describes as "12mm+ thick - the Ultra concept." Like Apple's more robust Apple Watch, Daehnert's titanium iPhone case has rounded edges with a flat top edge that sits flush with the display. Elsewhere, the side and volume buttons are protruding, reminiscent of the watch's crown guard. The case's extra thickness suggests a larger internal battery.
This is what the iPhone Ultra could look like
Other aspects of the Ultra design language adopted for Daehnert's concept include a robust ringer switch, a programmable action button on the bottom left, and a USB-C port on the bottom with an identical "International Orange" accent, located between the enlarged speaker grilles. In a tweet, Daehnert admits:
I have no idea what all was leaked, it was just an exercise to see if it was possible to adapt the design language of the Watch Ultra.
According to Mark Gurman, Apple has discussed that a new top iPhone will not be launched alongside the Pro and Pro Max models until 2024 at the earliest. According to this schedule, the device would be part of the iPhone 16 series or later. Gurman had previously stated that there was "potential" for an iPhone 15 Ultra that could replace the iPhone 15 Pro Max this year, but has since revised this forecast and assumes that Apple could release an even higher-end "Ultra" model above the two Pro variants next year at the earliest.
iPhone 15 Pro with titanium frame?
Gurman speculated that the device could have further camera improvements, a faster chip, a larger display, and possibly a portless design without Lightning or USB-C. He also said that the device will be "more expensive" than the iPhone 14 Pro Max, which starts at $1,099. Separately, there are rumors that the iPhone 15 Pro models could have thinner, curved edges reminiscent of an Apple Watch compared to the iPhone 14 Pro models. Instead of stainless steel, the iPhone 15 Pro models are also said to have a frame made of titanium, like the Apple Watch Ultra. Titanium is lighter and stronger than stainless steel. However, it is also more expensive. (Image: Jonas Daehnert)
