Apple Reportedly Exploring a Square, Clamshell-Style Foldable iPhone
Fresh from Bloomberg’s reliable reporter Mark Gurman, Apple is actively exploring a new foldable iPhone concept: a compact, square, clamshell-style device that folds vertically like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip series or the classic Motorola Razr. This comes hot on the heels of Apple’s first foldable iPhone (likely dubbed iPhone Fold) set to debut later in 2026, signaling the company is already planning a diverse foldable lineup.
Published in Gurman’s Power On newsletter (February 1, 2026), the report emphasizes that this clamshell model is still in early consideration stages inside Apple’s labs—far from guaranteed production—but it shows Cupertino’s confidence in the foldable category taking off.
Key Details on the Potential Clamshell Foldable iPhone
- Design Focus — A “square” form factor when closed for ultimate pocketability and portability. It would fold vertically (clamshell style), contrasting with the book-style (horizontal fold) expected on Apple’s debut foldable iPhone.
- Competitive Positioning — Directly targets the compact foldable market dominated by Samsung Galaxy Z Flip models and Motorola Razr devices. Apple aims to offer a premium, refined alternative with its signature build quality, ecosystem integration, and durability focus.
- Timeline & Priority — This would follow the first foldable iPhone, rumored for a September 2026 launch alongside iPhone 18 Pro models. No specific release window exists yet for the clamshell version—likely 2027 or later—and success depends heavily on how well the initial book-style model performs.
- Strategic Rationale — Gurman notes Apple believes the debut foldable will create “real demand” for the category, encouraging customers to seek variety in shapes and sizes, much like traditional slab iPhones (standard, Plus, Pro, Pro Max).
Context: Apple’s First Foldable iPhone (Book-Style) in 2026
The primary foldable remains the priority:
- Form Factor — Opens like a book (similar to Galaxy Z Fold), with a large inner display (~7.7–7.8 inches) for multitasking, video, and productivity, plus a smaller outer cover screen (~5.5 inches).
- Expected Features — Crease-minimizing display tech, massive battery (potentially >5,500 mAh), A20-series chip, custom C2 modem, advanced cameras, and deep Apple Intelligence integration.
- Launch Window — Fall 2026, positioned as a premium flagship (likely priced high, $1,800+ range based on prior rumors).
This clamshell exploration revives older prototype rumors and suggests Apple is hedging bets across form factors to capture different user preferences—portability vs. productivity.
Why This Could Matter for Apple Fans and the Industry
If Apple enters the clamshell space, it could bring:
- Superior hinge durability and crease resistance.
- Seamless iOS experience with optimized apps for foldables.
- Strong ecosystem perks (seamless Continuity, AirDrop, etc.).
- Potential fashion-forward appeal as a compact, stylish accessory.
However, challenges remain: foldable tech is complex, and Apple has historically waited for maturity before entering markets (e.g., waiting years for reliable OLED and hinge tech).
For now, this is speculative—Apple could pivot, delay, or scrap the idea based on testing and market response to the first foldable.
Stay tuned to VFuturMedia.com for the latest Apple rumors, iPhone 18 series updates, foldable tech insights, and hands-on previews as details emerge. Would you prefer Apple’s book-style foldable or a clamshell flip design? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
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