Apple is hosting its iPhone 16 event on September 9th and we are excited to see what the tech giant has in store for the new generation of iPhones. But what about foldable or flip phones? Apple’s competitors like Google, Samsung and OnePlus are already in the market with their foldable and flip phones while Apple has remained tight-lipped on the subject. Although Apple has not yet announced any plans for folding iPhones, rumors are growing in the tech industry that Apple is working on its own foldable device called the ‘iPhone Flip’.

From patents for foldable displays to reports of foldable iPhones, here’s an in-depth look at everything we know so far about Apple’s plans for a foldable iPhone.

Apple is working on the design of a new foldable device

While reports surrounding the “iPhone Fold,” a larger book-style foldable device, have dominated the rumor mill, recent mentions from Apple Insider suggest that Apple is also working on a smaller clamshell-style foldable device known as the “iPhone Flip.” This device is rumored to resemble a standard iPhone when opened, but folds in half, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series.

In July 2023, reports surfaced that Apple had codenamed this smaller foldable iPhone “V68.” It is believed to feature a vertical fold, allowing the top half to fold over the bottom, and may offer similar features to the Galaxy Z Flip, such as the ability to hold itself upright in an L-shape.

Apple and its challenges surrounding foldable devices

Apple’s plan to launch a foldable phone has reportedly been surrounded by challenges for several years. Apple has been working with its display partners, including LG Display and Samsung Display, since 2022 to develop a screen that can withstand repeated folding without forming visible creases. The company has even filed numerous patents related to flexible displays, suggesting that it is actively experimenting with different folding mechanisms and materials.

Ming-Chi Kuo, a renowned Apple analyst, reported that Apple is considering hybrid OLED panels that combine inflexible glass with flexible plastic substrates, a combination that could potentially reduce or eliminate the creasing problem known in other foldable devices.

A patent recently filed by Apple also describes a hinge mechanism that could allow the display to fold slightly inward in the event of a drop, thus protecting the inner display from damage.

What can we expect from Apple’s folding iPhone?

Although there are few details on the iPhone Flip’s specifications, speculation suggests that Apple will deliver high-end performance, advanced camera systems, and support for the latest software features, including Apple’s new AI tools known as “Apple Intelligence.”

Rumors also suggest that the device could feature a slim profile, similar to the rumored “iPhone Slim” model, to counteract the extra thickness created by folding. This could mean that Apple is aiming for a device that is just 0.20 inches thick, similar to the latest iPad Pro, which is currently Apple’s thinnest device. However, the design could require some compromises, such as a smaller number of rear cameras or a smaller battery capacity.

When could we see the iPhone flip?

According to reports, Apple could unveil its foldable or folding iPhone between 2026 and 2027. In June 2023, some reports suggested that Apple could aim for a 2027 release due to ongoing challenges with foldable display technology. However, other sources pointed to a possible 2026 launch, so the exact timeline remains uncertain.