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Vertu Launches $6,880 AI-Powered Foldable Smartphone for Executives

other · 2026-05-28

So, Vertu just launched this upscale foldable phone called the Alphafold, specifically designed for business executives. It kicks off at a whopping $6,880 for the calfskin model, with pricier versions, decked out in alligator leather and 18K gold, going as high as $46,800. The phone uses Hermes Agent, which is based on Nous Research's open-source project, and it syncs with ERP, CRM, and more than 80 other apps. It can handle requests from various AI models, including OpenAI's GPT. Vertu's CEO, Molly Ma, highlighted its focus on privacy, featuring a special A5 security chip. This device includes a Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 processor, an 8.05-inch foldable screen, and a strong battery, with the first 115 units shipping this week in major markets like the U.S.

Key facts

  • Vertu launched the Alphafold foldable smartphone starting at $6,880.
  • The phone is powered by an AI agent called Hermes Agent, built on Nous Research's open-source Hermes project.
  • Target audience is executives managing business operations on the move.
  • Highest-end standard model priced at $46,800 with bespoke finishes.
  • Alphafold integrates with enterprise systems like ERP and CRM and over 80 apps.
  • Routes requests across AI models: OpenAI's GPT, Anthropic's Claude, Google's Gemini, and open-source models.
  • Features a proprietary A5 security chip for on-device processing and data redaction; no third-party audits yet.
  • First 115-unit batch ships this week in major markets including the U.S.

Entities

Institutions

  • Vertu
  • TechCrunch
  • Nous Research
  • OpenAI
  • Anthropic
  • Google
  • Qualcomm
  • IDC
  • Samsung
  • Huawei

Locations

  • Hong Kong
  • China
  • U.S.

Sources