Vertu wants CEOs to run companies from an AI foldable starting at $6,880

Luxury smartphone manufacturer Vertu has unveiled its latest creation, the Alphafold, a foldable device designed specifically for business executives who need to manage their operations on the go. Priced from $6,880 for the calfskin model, this smartphone incorporates an AI agent that connects seamlessly with various enterprise software to optimize workflows. The Alphafold is not just a high-end smartphone; it reflects Vertu's strategy of catering to affluent consumers with bespoke options, including finishes in alligator leather, 18K gold, and natural diamonds. The company has also revealed that its most luxurious standard model can reach up to $46,800, depending on customization. This launch signifies Vertu's effort to innovate in the AI landscape after facing challenges in the competitive smartphone market. The Hong Kong-based company, which once thrived on luxury handsets and exclusive concierge services, is now pivoting to attract a new generation of users by integrating advanced AI features into its offerings. At the core of the Alphafold is the Hermes Agent, built on the open-source Hermes project by Nous Research. This agent can interface with enterprise systems such as ERP and CRM to handle various tasks like approvals, scheduling, sales tracking, and more—all through natural language prompts. Vertu notes that the deployment of these features will be tailored to meet the specific requirements of each client, with pricing adjusted accordingly. The Alphafold is equipped to route requests through multiple AI models, including OpenAI’s GPT and Google’s Gemini, while also integrating with over 80 applications for enhanced cross-platform functionality. Vertu's CEO, Molly Ma, pointed out that current AI features in mainstream smartphones are mainly targeted at consumer applications, leaving a gap for enterprise-focused solutions. Addressing concerns about data privacy, the Alphafold features a proprietary A5 security chip designed to safeguard sensitive information. This chip isolates authentication keys and biometric data from the main operating system, ensuring that commercially sensitive data can be processed locally. Although the company has highlighted its commitment to privacy, it has yet to undergo independent security audits. The Alphafold is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 processor and includes an 8.05-inch foldable display along with a 6.53-inch outer screen. The device boasts a robust 6,500mAh battery and advanced satellite communication capabilities, alongside a triple rear camera system featuring a 50-megapixel primary lens. Despite its premium features, the foldable smartphone market remains a niche segment, with global shipments expected to comprise less than 2% of total smartphone sales by 2025. However, analysts believe that the unique capabilities of foldables, combined with AI-agent workflows, could enhance productivity for users who require multitasking features. The first batch of 115 units of the Alphafold is set to ship this week to major markets, including the United States, as Vertu aims to redefine its place in the luxury smartphone arena.