Apple focusing on 'clamshell' foldable iPhone, says Prosser

Folding iPhone concept mock up
Folding iPhone concept mock up (Image credit: Rene Ritchie / iMore)

What you need to know

  • A new report says Apple is focusing on a clamshell design in prototypes of its folding iPhone.

A new report from serial Apple leaker Jon Prosser says that Apple has turned its attention to a clamshell design in prototypes of its folding iPhone.

In his latest episode of Front Page Tech, Prosser says that it seems Apple has made up its mind in terms of a foldable iPhone, following previous reports that it was in fact testing two different designs, one akin to the Galaxy Z Fold, and the other to the Galaxy Z Flip. Prosser had previously reported that Apple was testing both options, and further reports had noted that both had passed some internal testing.

However, Prosser says Apple is now leaning "heavily in the favor" of the latter clamshell design. Prosser says his sources are unclear why there has been this clear change of emphasis, but that this design is the one getting all of the attention behind the scenes.

Prosser says that a second piece of information paints a very interesting picture of Apple's goals for the phone. That's because Apple plans to offer the folding iPhone in multiple, "fun" colors, away from the "serious, polished" tone of Apple's iPhone 'Pro' lineup.

This indicates that Apple expects to market this device to everyday users, rather than as a premium, more expensive option. Prosser says this tidbit tells us much more about a folding iPhone than previous rumors.

Prosser further refuted rumors that a folding iPhone would be released next year, stating that this is "certainly not" the case. In fact, given this phone remains in early prototyping, there is every possibility that Apple will simply ditch the idea at any point in time.

Stephen Warwick
News Editor

Stephen Warwick has written about Apple for five years at iMore and previously elsewhere. He covers all of iMore's latest breaking news regarding all of Apple's products and services, both hardware and software. Stephen has interviewed industry experts in a range of fields including finance, litigation, security, and more. He also specializes in curating and reviewing audio hardware and has experience beyond journalism in sound engineering, production, and design. Before becoming a writer Stephen studied Ancient History at University and also worked at Apple for more than two years. Stephen is also a host on the iMore show, a weekly podcast recorded live that discusses the latest in breaking Apple news, as well as featuring fun trivia about all things Apple. Follow him on Twitter @stephenwarwick9