Samsung, Motorola, and Google have all delved into the world of foldable phones, with releases like the Galaxy Z Fold 5, Motorola Razr Plus reboot, and Pixel Fold, respectively. Despite this, Apple has yet to unveil its own foldable offering, although rumours persist about a device dubbed the iPhone Flip.
While speculation has abounded for years, Apple has remained tight-lipped about its plans for a foldable phone. Instead, the company appears to have directed its attention towards its AR/VR headset, the Apple Vision Pro, launched in early 2024. Nonetheless, reports suggest that Apple has invested significant research into foldable technology, potentially developing both a folding handset and a tablet.
Recent rumours suggest that Apple has been working on iPhone Flip models in two different sizes, although challenges have arisen in meeting Apple’s stringent standards. The company may also be exploring the development of a folding tablet with a screen around the size of an iPad Mini.
Earlier speculations hinted at a potential launch of Apple’s flexible screen device by 2025, with Samsung even releasing an app allowing iPhone users to experience a Z Fold-like interface by placing two iPhones side-by-side.
Despite predictions dating back to 2017 envisioning a foldable iPhone by 2020, no such device has materialized. Analysts and leakers have continuously pushed back the anticipated release date, keeping the hopes of phone enthusiasts alive. Amidst the absence of confirmed details from Apple, the future of its venture into foldables remains shrouded in uncertainty.
Reports suggest that Apple is tinkering with designs for two sizes of folding iPhones, resembling the clamshell format of devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 or Motorola Razr Plus. However, meeting Apple’s high expectations has proven challenging, with the company aiming for a device half as thin as current iPhone models, with displays visible when folded shut.
Development on the iPhone Flip reportedly paused around 2020 to prioritize a folding iPad project, featuring an 8-inch display similar in size to the iPad Mini. Unlike the iPhone Flip, the tablet’s design constraints are less stringent, as it doesn’t need to fit into pockets. Apple is said to be addressing issues such as the crease in the folding display and achieving a fully flat position when unfolded.
While early rumours suggested a potential launch in 2021, subsequent reports have pushed the timeline further. Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo proposed 2023 as a more realistic target, citing technological and production hurdles. However, recent speculation suggests a potential release in 2025 at the earliest, with concerns raised about the performance of Samsung folding panels reportedly intended for the iPhone Flip.
Overall, while the rumour mill continues to churn, Apple has yet to confirm any details about its foray into foldable devices, leaving enthusiasts eagerly awaiting further developments.
