The recently leaked news about a foldable iPhone reveals a wide, book-style folding device. However, the leaker Instant Digital states that Apple initially pursued a different design but rejected it. Here are the details.

The top-down folding iPhone design has been temporarily abandoned

Only six months remain until the launch of Apple's first foldable iPhone. Reports indicate that the design is completely locked in, and Apple is moving forward decisively towards mass production.

However, the book-style foldable model we will receive is quite different from the design Apple initially pursued.

A report from July 2024 stated that Apple's first foldable iPhone would feature a top-down folding design similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip.

However, by March 2025, it was reported that the direction had shifted towards a book-style fold.

Weibo leaker Instant Digital provided an explanation for why Apple rejected its initial foldable design in a new post.

Here is the translation of the online post:

Apple abandoned the Flip phone design because most internally thought it was "unnecessary." It did not create new, fundamental use scenarios; its biggest selling point was simply being able to fold and fit into a thin denim pocket, which completely ignored Apple's current hardware development focus.

The small foldable phone's interior space was divided in half by the hinge, meaning every inch was valuable. The battery capacity was limited, and significant compromises were made in camera performance... If the goal was simply to make the phone smaller, Apple would prefer to make its existing [models] more efficient.

Interestingly, recent reports suggest that Apple is once again exploring a flip-style design for a future iPhone model.

While it seems no definitive steps have been taken, it appears that Apple still has a flip design in mind for potential expansion.

9to5Mac's Opinion

I have always thought that the book-style foldable design makes more sense than the 'iPhone Flip' model. The opportunity for a 2-in-1 device that allows users to seamlessly switch between iPhone-like and iPad-like experiences seems quite appealing.

However, I can definitely see flip designs becoming valuable in the future as well. Users have consistently shown that they love large iPhone screens, and with a flip design, Apple could make the iPhone's screen larger without causing discomfort in the pocket.

If foldable screen technology becomes widespread, it would make sense for Apple to offer consumers a variety of options.

What are your thoughts on an iPhone with a flip-style design? Let us know in the comments.

Best iPhone Accessories

  • AirPods Pro 3 (limited time $224 price)
  • 10-year AirTag battery case 2-pack
  • MagSafe Car Mount for iPhone
  • Apple's new AirTag 2 (single pack / 4-pack)
  • 100W USB-C fast charging adapter