Apple built a stylus prototype for the foldable iPhone that may never launch

As Apple prepares to unveil its first foldable iPhone, the company has internally prototyped, tested and considered launching a specialized stylus for the device, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. However, he says it remains unlikely that this accessory will actually ship alongside the first folding iPhone model.

According to Gurman's reporting, the prototype stylus is shorter and stubbier than the existing Apple Pencil models typically paired with iPads. Like Apple's current stylus offerings, this prototype is designed to attach to the side of the device for charging and storage.

Design challenges

That attachment method creates a practical problem: the stylus could get in the way when a user opens the foldable phone without intending to use it. Gurman also noted that a stylus risks leaving marks on the display, since foldable screens tend to be more delicate than those on standard smartphones. Samsung faces a similar issue, with certain S Pen models restricted to working only with its foldable devices.

The foldable iPhone is expected to be unveiled on September 9, at which point it will become clear whether the stylus makes it out of the prototype stage or remains shelved.

Apple Watch updates also in the pipeline

While the stylus's future is uncertain, Gurman expressed more confidence about upcoming changes to the Apple Watch Series 12. Apple is reportedly testing white and dark gray options for its ceramic case models. On the software side, the company is developing a feature that would let the heart-rate sensor collect data continuously throughout the day, rather than only during physical activity or at random intervals. Apple is also said to be redesigning its fitness and health app to resemble platforms like Whoop and Oura.

Gurman further noted that a major Apple Watch redesign is more likely to arrive next year, though it could potentially be pushed back to 2028.