Apple is considering developing a clamshell-style foldable iPhone as a new model distinct from the standard iPhone and iPhone Pro lines to diversify the smartphone market.
In his Power On newsletter, Mark Gurman of Bloomberg revealed that Apple is exploring the possibility of a clamshell-style foldable iPhone similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip, a model that has been under development since 2024.
According to Mark Gurman's report, the clamshell iPhone is still in very early development stages, with no guarantee it will be released. Apple intends to wait for the market response to the first foldable iPhone launching in about seven months. If that model succeeds and creates real demand, Apple will proceed to develop various sizes and forms to meet customer needs, similar to how the current lineup includes both standard and Pro iPhone models.
Besides the clamshell model, Apple is also working on other foldable devices, such as book-style foldables. Previously, there were reports about a possible large 18-inch foldable iPad, which is expected to be priced as high as3,000 U.S. dollars.(approximately 95,000 baht).
Regarding updates on the first foldable iPhone expected to launch in late 2026, it is anticipated to feature a 5.5-inch outer display and a large 7.8-inch inner display when unfolded. This marks Apple's initial official entry into the foldable smartphone market after years of development.
Source:9to5Mac