Apple Intensifies Testing of Flip-Style iPhone, Challenging Samsung’s Dominance
Apple is reportedly accelerating development of its first foldable phone, tentatively called the iPhone Flip, potentially introducing the device sooner than initially anticipated. The advancement is linked to improvements in the supply chain for flexible displays and precision hinges, according to industry reports.
Although Apple has not officially announced plans to release a foldable iPhone, the evolving market dynamics and the success of competitors like Samsung Electronics with its Galaxy Z Flip and Galaxy Z Fold lines are driving the company’s efforts. The potential arrival of a similar product from Apple is seen as a strategic response to changing consumer preferences for premium smartphone designs.
Industry reports indicate Apple has been internally testing prototypes featuring vertically folding screens. This approach differs from earlier rumors surrounding a larger, book-style foldable tablet. Focusing on a clamshell format is considered more practical due to manageable dimensions and production costs compared to larger foldable designs.
This development comes alongside ongoing function on a book-style foldable iPhone, expected to launch first later in 2026. That initial model, resembling devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, is designed to offer a large internal display suitable for video consumption, gaming, and advanced multitasking. The exploration of a flip-style design was similarly noted by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman earlier this month.
According to Gurman, Apple is “exploring” a “square, clamshell” design for a foldable iPhone, which would likely be released after their first foldable device. It remains uncertain whether the flip-style iPhone will reach mass production. However, the first foldable iPhone from Apple, with a book-like design, is expected to feature a 7.8-inch crease-free internal display, a 5.5-inch cover screen, Touch ID, dual rear cameras, an A20 chip, and a “C2” modem.
The device is anticipated to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in the fall of 2026. This signals Apple’s serious entry into the increasingly competitive foldable phone market. The emergence of foldable technology represents a significant shift in smartphone innovation, offering consumers new form factors and functionalities.
