Apple is known to take its time when it comes to foldable devices. But behind the scenes, things are really brewing. While the first foldable iPhone is poised to be launched as a prestigious flagship, The engineers in Cupertino are already working on a more compact clamshell-style version – a classic flip phone format. as is typical of the competition.
After the foldable iPhone comes the flip iPhone
The first foldable iPhone is expected to be released in the coming months, catapulting Apple directly to the forefront of the foldable market. Internally, it will according to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg News The device is being touted as a "halo product," intended to pave the way for further form factors. Apple's labs are therefore already busy experimenting with a square design strongly reminiscent of Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip or Motorola's Razr. Apple is betting that after the initial success, customers will crave more choice and want to see different sizes and shapes, just like with the current iPhone lineup.
The iPad Fold lags, the iPhone picks up speed
What's interesting is the shift in priorities. There were reports of a giant, foldable iPad, but this project seems to have encountered technological hurdles and is likely on hold for now. Instead, the focus is now shifting more towards the compact foldable smartphone. According to... current information It will have an external display of approximately 5,5 inches. Compared to the huge panels of the competition, this is almost modest, which is why larger "book-style" versions are already being considered internally to appeal to users who find the first design too small.
Between wishful thinking and market reality
Whether the clamshell iPhone will ever actually hit the shelves is still up in the air. Apple is closely monitoring the market and will base further steps on the success of its first foldable device. One thing is certain, however: this won't be cheap. The first foldable iPhone will be positioned at the top of the price range, and this will likely also apply to subsequent models. Furthermore, it remains to be seen whether a 5,5-inch external display will still be compelling in 2026, or whether Apple will need to significantly improve the design before it becomes mainstream.proProduction starts.
