Folding iPhone: Should Apple Choose a Flip or a Fold Design? [Vote Now]

Rumors about a folding iPhone have circulated for several years, with recent claims suggesting a potential release towards the end of 2026.

Apple has two possible design directions for this device, but there has yet to be a clear agreement on which approach might be more advantageous …

Option 1: The flip

The first design option features a top-down fold, producing a device that, when opened, has a screen size comparable to a current iPhone, but folds down to a compact size that’s half the height and width, albeit twice as thick.

This design is commonly termed a “flip” style, reminiscent of the flip phone layout made famous by the Motorola Razr:

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 6 serves as a contemporary example of this design:

This model incorporates a small outer display for notifications, which opens up to reveal a larger main screen:

Option 2: The fold

The second design proposal features a device folded to the size of a standard iPhone, which then expands into a larger screen, akin to an iPad mini.

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 exemplifies this style. When folded, it showcases a full-height display:

Opening it reveals an expansive display that is double the size:

Another concept for this design could resemble a laptop-style clamshell, as envisioned by designer Antonio De Rosa:

Which approach should Apple adopt?

What do you think Apple should opt for – the flip or the fold design?

When we posed this question back in 2021, many readers expressed disinterest in a folding iPhone, and among those who were intrigued, there was no definitive favorite among the two styles. While the flip design was slightly more favored, the difference was minimal.

This time, we aim to clearly separate the inquiries: first, to gauge how many would purchase a folding iPhone if offered in their preferred design, and second, to determine which model Apple should pursue.

Responding to the first question, it’s important to note that Samsung’s experience indicates this would likely be a higher-priced option, significantly above any current iPhone model, so please consider this when you answer.

We encourage you to provide your feedback and share your opinions in the comments.

Images: 9to5Google, and Antonio De Rosa