Vertu launched the Alphafold foldable smartphone on May 28, 2026, equipped with the Hermes Agent AI to integrate deeply with enterprise software and workflows [1, 2]. The phone aims to serve business executives managing remote operations by combining luxury hardware with advanced AI capabilities tailored for enterprises [1, 2].

The Alphafold runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset released in 2025 and folds to a thickness of 11.8 mm, unfolding to 5.4 mm [2]. Its hinge and screen durability were tested to withstand 650,000 folds, surpassing Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold7 durability claims of 500,000 folds [2]. Featuring a 6,500 mAh silicon-anode battery, the phone incorporates emerging battery technology recently seen in Chinese smartphones [2].

Hermes Agent connects naturally with enterprise systems including ERP and CRM platforms. It coordinates tasks such as approvals, scheduling, sales tracking, travel planning, and reporting through natural language prompts [1, 2]. The phone routes AI requests across multiple models including OpenAI’s GPT, Anthropic’s Claude, Google’s Gemini, and selected open source models [1].

Vertu’s CEO Molly Ma said, "Existing AI features on smartphones from major manufacturers remain focused largely on consumer tools such as image editing and voice assistance. This leaves room for more advanced AI-agent workflows tied to enterprise systems." [1] The Alphafold targets a niche business market by blending high-end craftsmanship with powerful AI features.

The base Alphafold model starts at $6,880 with full-grain calfskin sourced from Italy [1, 2]. Higher-end versions can cost up to $46,800 and include bespoke finishes such as alligator leather, 18K gold, and diamonds [1]. Vertu continues handcrafted assembly, with components globally sourced and assembled in China. A Vertu spokesperson confirmed, "We have different factories. We source our high-end materials from other countries, like the full-grain calfskin from Italy." [2]

Vertu struggled for relevance and changed ownership multiple times before basing operations in Hong Kong [1, 2]. The Alphafold follows its last AI-phone product, the Agent Q, unveiled in late 2025 and marketed to entrepreneurs [2].

Vertu plans to continue shipping Alphafold phones this year with the Hermes Agent AI and enterprise software integrations as a core feature. [1, 2]