The clamshell iPhone would be released at some point after Apple's first foldable iPhone, which is expected to launch in September this year.
The first foldable iPhone is expected to open up like a book, similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7. This design will provide users with a large 7.7-inch inner display for watching videos and gaming, and there will likely be multitasking functionality. A clamshell iPhone, on the other hand, would be more about portability and pocketability.
"Apple is betting that its first foldable iPhone will be successful enough to generate real demand for the category and that customers will want additional shapes and sizes, much as they have with traditional slab-style iPhones," said Gurman. Nevertheless, he said a clamshell iPhone is "far from guaranteed to reach the market."
Saturday April 11, 2026 8:40 am PDT by Joe Rossignol
Apple reportedly plans to unveil a foldable iPhone in September, and the device will supposedly solve two problems with foldable smartphones.
In case you missed it, a leaker on Chinese social media platform Weibo recently claimed that the foldable iPhone will be named "iPhone Ultra."
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the device will have improved screen quality and overall durability...
Apple is developing at least four different styles of smart glasses, and the company is betting that their superior design will set them apart from rival products, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
Writing in his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman says that Apple's latest designs are made from a high-end material called acetate, which is "more durable and luxurious" than the standard...
John Giannandrea, Apple's former head of artificial intelligence, is set to leave the company this week as his final stock vesting date approaches.
In his "Power On" newsletter, Mark Gurman noted that Giannandrea's exit has been a prolonged one. Apple moved to dramatically reduce his role in March 2025 following the disappointing launch of Apple Intelligence and ongoing delays to the Siri...
This is the *one* I am waiting on. Not into the Fold format and size. If Apple does a clamshell right, it could be the new iPhone mini, actually pocket-friendly. If it ends up reasonably thick + durable, it’s a winner for me.
I’ve always been more partial to the “flip” than the “fold”—the extra square real estate in the fold is useless. a smaller footprint is invaluable! bring on the flip
I like the idea of a normal sized iPhone when folded and then an iPad mini sized iPhone when unfolded. Would people want this type of fold?
I personally would, I don’t need a large screen on my phone, and I’d like to save room in my pockets as long as it’s not extremely thick. Also I know a lot of women like this form factor too for the same reasons
