JAKARTA - Rumors that Apple has stopped developing a clamshell or "flip" model folding phone have been doubted by analysts and industry observers. A number of recent reports indicate that the device, often referred to as the iPhone Flip, is likely still in the internal development stage at Apple.
Speculation about the termination of the project emerged after a technology whistleblower with the account name Instant Digital on the Chinese social media platform Weibo stated that Apple had abandoned the iPhone Flip concept. According to the claim, some parties within Apple consider the design of the flip model flip phone to have no strong marketing reason.
The leaker also argued that the device's ultra-thin design would be a problem when folded. The device may look slim when open, but it will feel much thicker when closed, making it less practical for everyday use.
In addition, the small size of the device is said to make the internal space for components very limited. With a design split by a hinge, space for the battery, camera, and other components is considered increasingly difficult to optimize.
However, this claim is not entirely convincing to many industry observers. Instant Digital's track record of leaking Apple information is known to be quite diverse - some predictions have been proven correct, such as the Camera Control feature on the iPhone 16, but many other claims have later proved to be wrong.
A number of other reports actually show that Apple is still experimenting with various folding device designs. One of the most frequently mentioned is the book model known as the iPhone Fold, which is believed to be the company's main focus in the development of a folding smartphone.
Apple patent documents since 2016 have also shown a concept of a foldable device that resembles the design of the iPhone Flip. In recent years, the company has continued to file new patents related to flexible screen technology, with various design approaches ranging from a book model to a clamshell.
Another report from renowned technology analyst Mark Gurman in February also said that Apple's lab is still evaluating the clamshell-style iPhone design. The device is even said to potentially be launched around 2028 as part of exploring various shapes of future smartphones.
The possibility of an iPhone Flip also depends on the success of Apple's main folding model when it is released. If the iPhone Fold is well received by the market, Apple is expected to be more aggressive in exploring other design variants.
In addition, the success of folding phone series such as Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip from Samsung shows that the market for flip model devices does exist. This is proof that the design is not only technically possible, but also has commercial potential.
In the world of hardware engineering, the challenge of component space and hinge mechanisms is nothing new for Apple. The company is known for a design approach that maximizes tight spaces to include a variety of advanced technology components.
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