iPhone Flip release date expectations, price estimates, upgrades
What we know so far
Lately, there have been more and more rumors online hinting at what Apple might be planning. And yep, these plans may include a foldable device (or two). Most of them say the first foldable iPhone will open like a book (so more like a Galaxy Z Fold-type of device), but that doesn't rule out the idea of a flip-style version to accompany it or follow quickly after.
We've also seen some concept designs of what an "iPhone Flip" might look like, along with a few patents showing Apple's ideas and possible directions. Understandably though, no leaks have given us concrete info just yet.
So, let's take a look at what a clamshell-style foldable iPhone from Apple could end up being.
iPhone Flip release date
| Foldable | Release date |
|---|---|
| Foldable clamshell iPhone (iPhone Flip) | Early 2027, expected* |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Flip | February 2019 |
| Huawei P50 Pocket | December 2021 |
| Motorola Razr | November 2019 |
iPhone Flip price
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Foldable iPhone Flip | Unknown, but unlikely under $1,099. |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 | $1,099 |
| Motorola Razr+ | $999 |
| Oppo Find N3 Flip | Slightly cheaper than the above, but not available in Western markets |
iPhone Flip camera
When it comes, it will likely have a versatile, good camera. It may or may not have two cameras, and for now, your guess is as good as ours. You can safely expect the main camera will be at least 48MP (given the fact that the mid-range iPhone 16e comes with a 48MP camera), which should be able to take stunning photos.
iPhone Flip design
Nevertheless, we're inclined to believe the iPhone Flip will maintain a recognizable Apple look anyway. Several concept renders of a potential iPhone with a clamshell design have been circulating around the internet for some time now. Most point to a Galaxy Z Flip-style look, the classic clamshell foldable smartphone look, but just an iPhone.
Meanwhile, Jon Prosser from Front Page Tech also suggests that Apple may go for two displays like on Surface Duo. At least, according to Prosser, the company has prototyped it. This would conflict the other rumors, though, about Apple looking to get rid of the crease in a foldable display. Obviously, if there are two displays, there's no crease, per se...
Knowing Apple, we can safely expect an exquisite feel for this device. It also makes sense to expect of it a certain level of acceptable durability and sturdy build. Reputable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims a titanium casing and a titanium-stainless steel alloy hinge on the book-style foldable iPhone. It's very likely the iPhone Flip may also stick with this approach, if Kuo is right, that is.
iPhone Flip display
All right, all right, I know this is what everyone wants to know. To crease or not to crease seems to be Apple's dilemma right now (and generally, every foldable phone maker's dilemma). Foldable phones still have a crease in 2025, despite it being very minimal with new models such as the Oppo Find N5.
Multiple rumors about the foldable iPhone claim no crease whatsoever. If Apple manages to eliminate the crease (the straight line dent in the middle where the screen folds) on the iPhone 'Fold', you can absolutelybesure the technology will trickle down to the flip iPhone.
Over the last few years, rumors have been contradictory on which display maker may supply the display for the foldable iPhone. Rumor has it Cupertino has been talking with both LG and Samsung for foldable displays, but it is not clear which one Apple has chosen just yet.
As for the size, nothing is known at the moment. The sizes of the iPhone Fold are in the rumor mill, but as far as the iPhone Flip comes, it's all under wraps.
Competing devices with the clamshell form factor may give you an idea (somewhat) of what display sizes you can imagine for Apple's take:
- Galaxy Z Flip 6: 6.7-inch folding display, 3.4-inch cover display
- Motorola Razr+: 6.9-inch folding display, 3.6-inch cover display
- Oppo Find N3 Flip: 6.8-inch folding display, 3.3-inch cover display
So, picture a big display with a regular smartphone ratio, more or less. The big display coupled with the foldable form factor (portability, you know) is one of the finest advantages of foldable phones in general.
iPhone Flip battery
These higher-density cells are designed to store more energy within the same physical space. The battery size is unknown, but I'm pretty sure it will be just enough for you not to worry about it.
iPhone Flip software
We don't yet know which iOS version the iPhone Flip will run. Most likely, it'll be a special version of iOS designed for the foldable screen – maybe with features like Samsung's Flex Mode, where you can watch a video on the top half and type on the bottom. We can also safely expect Apple Intelligence, and hopefully by the time this iPhone is released, the promised context-aware Siri will also be in the game.
Knowing Apple, the Flip will probably get software updates for many years, just like their other phones. So that part should be reassuring.
Should I wait for the iPhone Flip?
- You should wait for the iPhone Flip ifyou currently rock a new iPhone (so you're not in immediate need for upgrading) and want to take advantage of the portability of a foldable iPhone. Also, you should wait if you like foldables, but you don't like creases or Android.
- You should not wait for iPhone Flip ifyou like the current foldables, butyou don't necessarily fancy iOS. Also, if you're in dire need of upgrading your iPhone, becausethe iPhone Flip is not expected until at least 2027.
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