Apple has been rumored for years to be working on multiple foldable form factors, with the most anticipated being the so-called iPhone Fold. Expected to debut alongside the iPhone 18 lineup at a future September event, this first foldable iPhone is said to feature an unconventional, wider aspect ratio that has already influenced competing Android manufacturers.
However, Apple's long-term foldable strategy may extend beyond a single design. New information suggests the company is also considering a second foldable device—one that closely resembles the clamshell-style foldables popularized by Samsung and Motorola.
A Clamshell Foldable Under Consideration
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple has begun early discussions around a square, clamshell-style foldable iPhone. In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman reports that this device would follow a design philosophy similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip or Motorola's Razr, rather than the book-style foldable expected from Apple's first-generation model.
This approach would represent a notable shift. Early foldable iPhone rumors initially pointed toward a flip-style device, before later reports suggested Apple had prioritized a wider, book-style foldable instead. The renewed interest in a clamshell design indicates Apple may be keeping multiple options open as it evaluates market demand and technical feasibility.
Folding iPad Plans May Be on Hold
Gurman also notes that this potential clamshell iPhone could replace earlier plans for a folding iPad, a product that has reportedly faced development challenges. While Apple is known for exploring multiple prototypes internally, not all concepts ultimately reach production, and priorities can shift as engineering hurdles or market conditions change.
Importantly, Gurman emphasizes that a clamshell foldable iPhone is “far from guaranteed.” Apple is reportedly focused first on ensuring the success of its initial foldable phone before committing to a broader foldable lineup.
Book-Style Foldable Still a Possibility
There remains an equal possibility, Gurman adds, that Apple could instead pursue a more traditional book-style foldable with proportions similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold. This direction could be influenced by stronger demand for larger foldables compared to flip-style devices, particularly among productivity-focused users.
Regardless of the direction Apple chooses, a second foldable device is unlikely to launch in the near term. The company appears to be taking a cautious, phased approach to entering the foldable market.
What We Know About the First iPhone Fold
Based on previous reports, Apple's first-generation foldable iPhone is expected to feature a 6.5-inch internal display paired with a 5.5-inch external screen. The device is said to be wider than most current foldables, with proportions closer to a passport than a traditional smartphone when unfolded.
Early information suggests the device may be powered by Apple's A18 chip and feature a dual-camera system on the rear. Limiting the number of cameras could help keep thickness and weight under control—two factors that remain critical challenges in foldable design. As with all pre-production details, these specifications may change as the device moves closer to mass production.
