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According to a person with direct knowledge of the situation, Apple is building prototypes of at least two iPhones that fold widthwise like a clamshell.

The foldable iPhones are in early development and are not on the company’s mass production plans for 2024 or 2025, Reuters reported per The Information, adding that Apple recently approached at least one manufacturer in Asia for components related to two foldable iPhones of different sizes.

The concept of a clamshell-folding iPhone harkens back to the era of flip phones, introducing a new dimension of functionality and portability to the iconic iPhone brand.

This indicates a potential shift in Apple’s product strategy as they explore innovative form factors beyond the traditional smartphone design, notes Brand Vision Insights.

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The fact that Apple has moved past conceptualisation and into prototyping implies that the company is making a sincere attempt to investigate different design incarnations and technological applications, highlighting its commitment to providing an engaging user experience.

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding this development, there are some challenges that Apple needs to overcome first:

Apple’s foldable iPhone aims to be half the thickness of current iPhone models when unfolded. Apple also wants to include an outward-facing display to improve the usability and versatility of the device.  However, in spite of these hopes, Apple’s engineers and designers have faced obstacles in achieving these goals.  There are still difficulties in designing a display that folds completely flat, which poses a significant technical obstacle that Apple needs to get past in order to guarantee a flawless user experience.

In 2020, Apple tried to develop foldable phones, but that didn’t really work out. Foldable technology is still a long way away, which means a clamshell iPhone won’t be released anytime soon. Reports indicate that the device could be released in 2026 or later.

In the meantime, Digicape, South Africa’s largest independent Apple retailer, has all the Apple devices on the cards. While Digicape can assist with all your Apple-related queries, they also offer trade-in options, allowing you to get the latest device at a much more affordable price.

Head over here to fill in the table to get an estimate of your device’s value so that you can trade it and use the value towards your next purchase. It can’t get simpler.

[sources:reuters&brandvm]