Foldable iPhone: Should Apple Opt for a Flip or a Fold? [Poll]

For many years, rumors about a folding iPhone have surfaced, and the latest reports hint at a potential launch by late 2026.

Apple has two distinct design paths to consider for this device, and there hasn’t been a shared opinion on which would be preferable …

Option 1: The Flip

The first design choice is a top-down folding mechanism, where the unfolded unit resembles the size of a current iPhone and collapses into a pocket-friendly device that is half as tall and wide, albeit with double the thickness.

This method is often noted as a “flip” design, effectively reinterpreting the classic clamshell style that gained popularity with the Motorola Razr:

A contemporary example of this design can be seen in Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 6:

The device features a small display on the outside for notification purposes and unfolds to reveal a larger inner screen:

Option 2: The Fold

The second design strategy involves a device that retains the current iPhone size when closed, which can then expand to reveal a larger display akin to an iPad mini.

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 exemplifies this design. When folded, it features a full-height display on the exterior:

When opened, it reveals a much larger internal display:

Another potential application of this design could be a clamshell configuration, as envisioned by designer Antonio De Rosa:

Which Approach Should Apple Choose?

What direction do you think Apple ought to take – flip or fold?

Back in 2021, when we posed this question, the majority of respondents expressed no interest in a folding iPhone. Among those who did show interest, there was no decisive preference for one design over the other; however, a slight lean towards the flip design was noted.

This time, we are breaking down the inquiry into two parts: first, how many would consider purchasing a folding iPhone (if presented in your desired format), and second, which design you think Apple should implement.

The first question is crucial as Samsung’s precedent typically indicates that such devices would come with a high price point, likely exceeding current iPhone models. Please keep this in mind while responding.

We would appreciate your input on each question, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section.

Images: 9to5Google, and Antonio De Rosa