Foldable smartphones are no longer a niche product. Manufacturers like Samsung and Motorola regularly release new generations of their devices. Apple has so far held back, but is apparently working behind the scenes on several foldable concepts. A recent report suggests that a compact iPhone Flip is also part of this.
The information comes from Mark Gurman, who regularly reports on internal Apple plans for Bloomberg. According to Gurman, Apple is considering a foldable iPhone with a square, foldable design. This device is being discussed internally, and it's already clear that "iPhone Flip" would very likely not be the official name.
Apple's cautious approach to new product categories is typical. Instead of reacting quickly to trends, they wait, test, and prioritize. This approach is also evident in their handling of foldable devices.
Apple's first steps with foldable iPhones
Before an iPhone Flip even becomes a realistic possibility, Apple is planning a different foldable model. The company's first foldable device is expected to open like a book, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. This device is rumored to feature a large 7.7-inch display on the inside.
The focus of this model is clearly on media consumption and productivity. Videos, games, and multitasking should be significantly more comfortable thanks to the large screen area. It is currently assumed that this first foldable iPhone could be released as early as September of this year.
Where would the iPhone Flip fit in?
The iPhone Flip would not be intended as a direct successor to the first foldable phone, but rather as a complement. Unlike the book-like design, it would use a clamshell format. This design folds vertically and emphasizes compactness and easy portability.
In this segment, Apple would compete with devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and the modern Motorola Razr. While these devices are already established, Apple would try to differentiate itself through build quality, software integration, and long-term support.
In comparison to the large Fold model, the iPhone Flip is less about multitasking and large displays, but more about everyday usability and a design that saves as much space as possible.
Success as a decisive factor
According to Gurman, the future of the iPhone Flip depends heavily on the success of the first foldable iPhone. Apple is betting that this device will generate enough demand to legitimize the entire category. Only if customers demonstrate a desire for other form factors in addition to a large foldable phone could further models follow.
This approach is reminiscent of Apple's previous strategy with classic iPhones. There, too, different sizes and variants exist after the basic product type proved successful. Nevertheless, Gurman emphasizes that a so-called iPhone Flip is "far from guaranteed.".
iPhone Flip remains an open option for now
The iPhone Flip is currently more of an internal concept than a confirmed product. Apple is apparently exploring various foldable designs but is initially prioritizing a larger, book-style foldable model. Whether a compact, foldable iPhone will actually be released depends largely on how well the first foldable iPhone sells and whether there is genuine demand for other form factors. Until then, the iPhone Flip remains a possible, but uncertain, future project. (Image: Shutterstock / Helga_natt)
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