The fourth developer beta of iOS 27 contains hidden code referencing an iPhone equipped with multiple internal batteries, MacRumors reports.
The discovery, initially reported by Macworld and verified by MacRumors, includes new system strings within the Battery Health menu that specifically use plural phrasing. Current iPhone models explicitly refer to a single battery within the Settings app.
The updated diagnostic messages include phrases such as, «The batteries in this iPhone are performing as expected.» Additional alerts warn when the health of the batteries has degraded or if one of the components cannot be verified as a genuine Apple part, noting that an «Apple Authorised Service Provider can replace the batteries to restore full performance and capacity.»
Industry observers speculate this terminology directly relates to the highly anticipated foldable «iPhone Ultra». Foldable smartphones traditionally split power cells across both halves of the chassis to balance weight and maximise internal space. Prior leaks suggest the device will feature a combined capacity of 4,883mAh divided between a 1,921mAh cell and a larger 2,962mAh unit.
The system wording indicates these batteries could be serviced independently. Allowing technicians to replace a single degraded cell rather than the entire power system could significantly reduce repair costs for consumers.
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone Ultra this September alongside the standard iPhone 18 Pro lineup.
