Main points
- Apple is considering the concept of a compact clamshell iPhone, similar to modern flip smartphones, which is currently in the internal research stage.
- The company plans to gauge user reaction to the book-format iPhone Fold before deciding on a more compact model.
After the iPhone Fold, the company may release a foldable iPhone clamshell / Collage 24 Channel
While the market is discussing the possible launch of the iPhone Fold, Apple is already thinking about another format for a foldable smartphone. According to Bloomberg, the company is studying the concept of a compact clamshell iPhone, which could become an alternative to the large folding device.
Rumors surrounding the iPhone Fold have been swirling for months, with Apple's first foldable smartphone expected to arrive later this year, with reports suggesting that Cupertino is also considering a more compact version, GSM Arena reports.
Why is Apple thinking about a flip format?
Inside Apple, discussions are ongoing about the idea of a square, clamshell iPhone , similar to today's flip smartphones. This is not a finished product, but a concept that is undergoing internal research and prototyping in the company's labs.
Gurman writes for Bloomberg that there is currently no timeline for the launch of such a device. Moreover, there is no guarantee that a flip iPhone will even reach the market. Apple first plans to assess the user reaction to the book-format iPhone Fold before making a decision on a more compact model.
The idea of a foldable iPhone isn't new. A similar device has been rumored for several years. It was previously reported that Apple has at least two prototypes of a flip smartphone and was even considering releasing this format before the book-like Fold.
Concepts and unofficial demonstrations of what such a device might look like have also appeared online repeatedly. One video, created by enthusiasts over three years ago, showed a possible flip iPhone design, although it has no direct relation to Apple's actual developments.
Thus, Apple's strategy for foldable smartphones may be broader than expected. The company seems to be not limited to one form factor and is testing different scenarios before betting on a specific direction.
What will be the specifications of Apple's first foldable smartphone?
Analyst Jeff Pu has published a table of specifications for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the foldable iPhone Fold, which are expected to be released in the fall. The data confirms some of the previous leaks, but the expert himself is known for the contradictory accuracy of his predictions.
According to the analyst, it will be a book-sized foldable smartphone with a 7.8-inch internal screen and a 5.3-inch external display. The processor, RAM, and modem of this model will be the same as in the Pro versions. The iPhone Fold's front camera will work in both folded and unfolded modes. The main camera will consist of several 48-megapixel sensors. Biometric protection, according to Pu, will be implemented via Touch ID, and the case will combine titanium and aluminum.