The rumor mill is mixing with reports that Apple is currently building prototypes for a flip-style foldable iPhone.
According to a new report from a person familiar with the situation, Apple has two foldable iPhone models in development. These mimic the flip phone design of devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip rather than a larger foldable screen.
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Importantly, these prototypes don’t mean foldable iPhones will actually launch anytime soon. The report says they aren’t part of Apple’s production plans for 2023 or even 2024. A foldable iPhone likely wouldn’t debut until at least the fall of 2026 if the project continues.
Apple is apparently talking to Asian manufacturers about supplying foldable iPhone parts. But as always, the project could be canceled if the prototypes don’t meet Apple’s high standards.
Apple has wanted to develop a foldable iPhone since 2018. But issues like battery life and durable displays have challenged designs so far.
Interestingly, Apple initially wanted the display on the outside when folded – similar to the Huawei Mate X. But this resulted in fragility problems.
Now Apple engineers are focused on eliminating display creases and enabling the foldable screen to lie totally flat for Apple Pencil use.
So in summary – foldable iPhones are in early development but likely years away from any official launch. As rumors swirl, Apple continues working to perfect the technology. We’ll have to wait and see if flip foldable iPhones ever materialize!