Apple Exploring Clamshell-Style Foldable iPhone to Rival Galaxy Z Flip and Razr

Apple is reportedly evaluating a second foldable iPhone concept that would adopt a compact, clamshell-style design, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The device is said to be under consideration as a successor to Apple’s first foldable iPhone and would see the company compete directly with flip-style foldables from Samsung and Motorola.

The clamshell variant would feature a vertical folding mechanism, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip and Motorola’s Razr models. This would contrast with Apple’s initial foldable iPhone, which is widely expected to use a book-style design with a larger display that unfolds into a tablet-like form factor.

Gurman notes that Apple is exploring multiple foldable approaches rather than committing to a single format. By assessing both book-style and clamshell designs, the company appears to be determining how different foldable form factors could align with its long-term hardware strategy.

Previously, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested that Apple is aiming for a fall 2026 launch for its first foldable iPhone, potentially alongside the iPhone 18 lineup, while cautioning that the timeline could shift based on development progress.

Apple has yet to officially confirm any foldable iPhone plans, and the clamshell model remains in the exploratory stage, with no indication of whether or when it might move forward.

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