Although the initial foldable iPhone lacks a firm launch timeline, Apple appears to be evaluating a more compact successor. Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman indicates the company is investigating a square-shaped, clamshell-type folding smartphone, though he notes this concept remains speculative and not assured for production at present.
Should this compact version materialize, it would position Apple to challenge current competitors like Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 7 and the updated Motorola Razr series. Gurman's analysis also suggests strong confidence in the debut foldable iPhone, expected to arrive later this year, prompting preparations for additional models to meet anticipated interest.
Rumors of a clamshell iPhone aren't new, as an earlier account from The Information described Apple prototyping such designs. In contrast, Gurman's newsletter highlights interest in a bigger foldable resembling a book when unfolded. He had previously mentioned plans for an iPad-like large foldable, but development hurdles could push any release to 2029.