By Iyore Akezua
Apple is preparing to enter the foldable smartphone market with its first foldable iPhone, expected for release this fall, and is reportedly exploring a smaller, vertically folding version as a potential follow-up, according to Bloomberg.
The upcoming device, often referred to as the iPhone Fold, will feature a horizontally folding screen. Early reports suggest the internal display will measure 7.8 inches, with a secondary external screen of 5.5 inches, and a battery capacity exceeding 5,500mAh, offering both a large-screen experience and all-day power.
Bloomberg notes that Apple is considering a vertical “iPhone Flip” model in the future, similar in concept to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip series, which folds top-to-bottom. The Flip variant is expected to be smaller, more affordable, and designed to combine practicality with the latest hardware innovations. Its release, however, may depend on the commercial performance of the initial foldable iPhone.
Apple is reportedly pausing its previously discussed foldable iPad project, focusing instead on refining the foldable iPhone lineup. The company appears to be positioning itself to offer a range of foldable devices, catering to different preferences in screen size and folding design, echoing strategies already employed by competitors like Samsung.
Industry analysts suggest that Apple’s move into foldables could reshape the premium smartphone market, providing users with devices that combine portability and expansive displays. With the foldable iPhone set to debut later this year, attention is now turning to consumer reception and whether the vertical Flip model will follow.
