Apple is Also Planning an iPhone Flip Alongside iPhone Fold — Here Are The Details

Apple is preparing to enter the foldable smartphone segment this September with the expected debut of its first foldable device, tentatively called the iPhone Fold. However, a new report indicates the company is also exploring a second design.

According to Bloomberg, Apple has begun testing a flip-style foldable iPhone internally. The device, commonly referred to as the iPhone Flip, features a clamshell design.

Internal Testing Underway

The report states that Apple has moved beyond early concept discussions and has built internal prototypes of the flip-style device. A supply chain source said the company has conducted testing but has not yet committed to mass production.

Earlier reports from established industry analysts also suggested Apple was evaluating a square, flip-style form factor. This points to broader experimentation with foldable designs rather than focusing on a single model.

Launch Date

Details about the testing phase remain limited. However, the presence of working prototypes indicates Apple is assessing multiple design directions before finalizing its long-term foldable strategy.

Industry speculation suggests that the earliest possible launch window for a flip-style iPhone could be around 2027. A later release remains possible, depending on technological development and market demand.

Apple is expected to monitor consumer response to its first book-style foldable before deciding whether to move forward with another form factor.

Different Designs for Different Users

The book-style foldable, expected to launch first, will likely emphasize productivity. It is anticipated to feature a large inner display that delivers tablet-like functionality when unfolded.

In contrast, a clamshell foldable would target users who prioritize portability and compact design. The device would offer a smaller folded footprint, similar to existing flip-style models such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Motorola Razr 60.