Apple has tested a dedicated stylus for its first foldable smartphone, but the company does not currently plan to release the accessory alongside the new device.
Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman reported that Apple developed a prototype stylus designed specifically for the foldable handset. The prototype features a more compact form factor than existing Apple Pencil models used with iPad tablets.
According to the report, Apple designed the accessory to attach magnetically to the side of the foldable smartphone and charge directly from the device while docked.
Prototype Design and Magnetic Features
The Apple Pencil is a line of wireless stylus accessories designed by Apple Inc. for its iPad tablet computers, enabling precise drawing, handwriting, and graphic navigation. Bringing stylus capability to a phone would represent a new direction for the lineup, as Apple has traditionally reserved Apple Pencil support for larger displays. Foldable smartphones utilize flexible screens that allow a handset to bend shut or expand into a larger tablet-style display.
Apple is expected to present its first foldable smartphone during a product presentation scheduled for September 9. Industry rumors suggest that the new foldable device could be named the iPhone Ultra.
Launch Expectations and Model Names
Although Apple does not currently plan to bring the compact stylus to market alongside the foldable phone, an iPhone-compatible Apple Pencil could still release later if company management changes its decision. In related smartphone news, the iPhone 17 Pro Max recently became the most popular iPhone model during a promotional campaign on monomarket.
Apple traditionally holds major hardware announcement events every September to introduce new flagship iPhone models and updated mobile hardware. The annual autumn event serves as the primary stage for launching the company's newest consumer technologies.
Bloomberg Reporting and Future Outlook
Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman has an established record of reporting on unannounced product prototypes, software projects, and hardware testing within Apple. Hardware engineering teams routinely build and test specialized accessories that may be shelved or delayed prior to commercial production.
Apple will host its next product presentation on September 9 to showcase its latest devices. If executive plans shift following the event, the compact stylus designed for the foldable iPhone may see a commercial release at a later date.
