Apple is widely expected to enter the foldable smartphone market this year with a perhaps groundbreaking device, signaling a possible shift in the company’s long-held iPhone strategy. Reports suggest the initial foldable iPhone, anticipated alongside the iPhone 18, will adopt a “book-like” design-similar to the Samsung Galaxy Fold-but Apple is also reportedly developing a second, clamshell-style foldable reminiscent of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip. This dual-track approach indicates Apple’s ambition to explore multiple form factors in the evolving foldable space, a market currently dominated by competitors like Samsung, Motorola, and others.
Apple is widely expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone this year, potentially signaling a major shift in the company’s smartphone strategy. The new device, anticipated alongside the iPhone 18 lineup later this summer, is rumored to feature a book-like folding design, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Fold. However, Apple’s ambitions in the foldable space may extend beyond a single large-screen format.
The company is reportedly designing a second foldable iPhone with a clamshell form factor, reminiscent of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and other similar devices currently on the market. Technology analyst Mark Gurman revealed this information in his Bloomberg newsletter, alongside other details regarding the company’s recent earnings report.
The Information reported on this possibility as early as 2024, indicating that Apple was actively working on multiple foldable prototypes. Gurman clarified that the smaller-form factor product is not yet guaranteed to reach the market. The rise of foldable phones has seen increasing adoption from manufacturers like Samsung, Motorola, Xiaomi, and Oppo, each experimenting with different hinge designs and screen sizes.
Some manufacturers, like Xiaomi and Huawei, have even explored triple-folding designs. The core concept behind these devices is to offer a compact, pocketable form factor that expands into a larger screen experience approaching that of a tablet or laptop. This innovation aims to bridge the gap between smartphone portability and larger-screen productivity.
Conversely, clamshell-style models maintain the screen dimensions of a standard smartphone but fold in half for increased portability. These devices typically feature an external display for quick access to information without requiring the phone to be unfolded.
Artes conceptuales del iPhone plegable en base a los rumores.
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In recent years, companies venturing into foldable designs have focused on refining the technology, striving for thinner profiles, improved battery life, and minimizing the visibility of the screen crease – ultimately enhancing the quality and durability of these devices. This ongoing refinement is crucial for establishing a premium user experience.
Apple will need to meet these evolving standards to maintain the quality associated with its iPhone lineup, particularly given its late entry into this emerging market segment.
Another source, a Korean tech leaker known as yeux1122 on Naver, recently claimed that the iPhone Fold will incorporate a hinge constructed from liquid metal, a material Apple has previously explored. Gurman also noted that the first foldable iPhone is expected to feature an external display measuring approximately 5.5 inches.
Tim Cook’s company is optimistic that its initial foldable model will generate sufficient demand to spur interest in other form factors and sizes among consumers, following the path paved by its competitors. The success of these devices could reshape the future of mobile computing.
Last year, Gurman reported that Apple was also evaluating an 18-inch foldable iPad, potentially priced around $3,000.
