Apple is reportedly considering a smaller, clamshell foldable iPhone. The latest news comes from tech journalist Mark Gurman's Power On newsletter. According to the report, the device is still in the early stages and is only being considered.
This potential model would fold like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip. This is not the first time Apple has looked at clamshell designs. In 2024, The Information reported the company had several prototypes.
At the time, Apple was deciding how to launch a foldable iPhone. In the end, a tablet-style foldable was chosen. It was also reported that Apple had been discussing component orders in Asia for a foldable iPhone in two sizes, but The Information warned that the project could be cancelled over design standards.
Now, Gurman has reported Apple is exploring a square, clamshell-style foldable iPhone. The device is not guaranteed to launch, but Apple hopes it will create enough demand for alternative shapes and sizes.
“The product is far from guaranteed to reach the market. Still, Apple is betting that its first foldable iPhone will be successful enough to generate real demand for the category and that customers will want additional shapes and sizes, much as they have with traditional slab-style iPhones,” his newsletter read.
9To5Mac reported that the proposal appears to be at a nascent stage, with no release timeline yet in sight. However, it is worth noting that Apple could be working on multiple foldable iPhones, not just the single model.
Gurman also noted that Apple is exploring a book-style foldable device. Last year, he reported the company was considering an 18-inch foldable iPad, which could carry a price tag of around $3,000.
While these developments suggest Apple's intention to explore a series of foldable designs, the company has not made any official comments.
The initial foldable iPhone is expected to have a 5.5-inch outer display and a 7.8-inch inner display, 9to5Mac report added.
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