Apple Exploring Flip-Style Foldable iPhone, Gurman Reports

Apple is reportedly exploring a flip-style foldable iPhone design alongside its planned book-style iPhone Fold, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The Cupertino company is said to be considering a "square, clamshell-like iPhone" in its labs, though Gurman noted there's no guarantee the device will actually reach the market.

The news comes as Apple prepares for the launch of its first foldable device, expected later this year. The company will reportedly test consumer response to the book-style iPhone Fold before committing to additional foldable form factors. This cautious approach makes sense given the nascent state of foldable technology and the need to establish consumer demand.

Flip-style foldables have been rumored to be in development at Apple for several years. Previous reports suggested the company had at least two prototype versions of a clamshell design, with some speculation that Apple originally planned to launch a flip-style fold before the book-style one. The company's exploration of multiple form factors indicates serious consideration of how foldables might fit into its product lineup.

The clamshell design represents a different approach to foldable technology compared to the book-style foldables that have dominated the market. While devices like Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series and Huawei's Pura X offer tablet-sized screens that fold out, flip-style foldables like the Galaxy Z Flip and Motorola Razr fold vertically to create more pocketable devices when closed. This form factor could appeal to iPhone users who value compactness but want larger screen real estate when needed.

Apple's exploration of a flip-style foldable comes as the broader smartphone market continues to experiment with foldable designs. Competitors have released various iterations, from book-style foldables to flip-style devices and even tri-fold designs. The technology still faces challenges around durability, hinge mechanisms, and display longevity, which Apple will need to address to meet its quality standards.

The company's methodical approach to foldable development aligns with its typical product strategy. Rather than rushing to market, Apple appears to be carefully evaluating different form factors and waiting to see how consumers respond to its initial foldable offering before expanding into additional designs. This measured approach could help Apple avoid some of the early issues that have plagued competitors' foldable devices.

While the iPhone Flip remains in the exploration phase, its development signals Apple's long-term interest in foldable technology. The company's exploration of multiple foldable designs suggests it sees potential in the category beyond just a single form factor, though it will likely wait for the right technology and market conditions before bringing such a device to consumers.