Apple reportedly testing a Galaxy Z Flip-style foldable iPhone

Samsung is currently the global leader in the foldable smartphone segment, but it may soon face serious competition. Apple is expected to launch its first foldable iPhone later this year, and it is likely to feature a Galaxy Z Fold-style design. The iPhone maker is also reportedly working on a Galaxy Z Flip-style clamshell foldable.

According to Chinese tipster Fixed Focus Digital, Apple has already tested a flip-style foldable iPhone design. This suggests the company has begun developing hardware for the concept. However, it remains unclear when such a device might reach the market. This report lines up with an earlier report from Bloomberg about a similar device.

If Apple ultimately launches a clamshell foldable iPhone, Samsung could face significant challenges in maintaining its current position in the foldable smartphone market.

It will also be interesting to see what improvements or advantages a Galaxy Z Flip-style iPhone might offer over existing devices, as well as what compromises it could bring. Current clamshell foldable phones typically feature fewer cameras and smaller batteries than traditional smartphones. Whether Apple can overcome any of these limitations remains to be seen.

To compete with Apple’s expected book-style foldable iPhone, Samsung is reportedly developing a wider Galaxy Z Fold 8 with a shorter, wider display. Such a design could be harder to hold, but it would provide a more suitable aspect ratio for watching videos. User preference between these two form factors may shape the future direction of book-style foldable smartphones.

Apple may be particularly confident about book-style foldable phones, as they offer clear productivity advantages over traditional smartphones. The company could also benefit from the large number of iPad-optimized apps already available on the App Store, which may give it a meaningful edge over competing foldable Android devices.

To expand its foldable iPhone lineup, Apple could also explore clamshell-style models aimed at fashion-conscious users or those who prefer a device smaller than current iPhones. In addition, lessons it learned from the iPhone Air could help it optimize battery efficiency within the tighter space available in clamshell-style devices.