[DigitalToday intern reporter Kyungmin Hong] Apple is reviewing an expansion of its lineup that includes a flip-style model that opens vertically in a square form factor, assuming its first foldable iPhone succeeds. The move signals its intent to secure an early foothold in the foldable market.

On Feb. 1 (local time), tech outlet NineToFiveMac cited a newsletter by Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman as saying Apple is discussing, at the research and development stage, a device that folds top to bottom in a so-called flip form factor.

The form factor could compete directly with Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Z Flip series and Motorola's Razr series. Apple is understood to be planning follow-on products after its first foldable model in a book style that opens horizontally like a book.

Apple's flip-style foldable phone idea is not new. It has already produced multiple prototypes in 2024 to test manufacturing feasibility. Gurman said Apple is optimistic that its first foldable iPhone, set to be released in the second half of this year, will gain a foothold in the market and generate sufficient demand. He analysed this as a strategic move to diversify the sizes and forms of its foldable lineup, similar to the existing bar-style iPhone range.

Still, the flip model remains in an early review stage, making an actual launch uncertain. Gurman also drew a line, saying the chances of the device reaching the market and a specific release schedule have not been decided at all. By contrast, the first foldable iPhone set to debut in the second half has entered clearer view, with a specific configuration featuring a 5.5-inch external screen and a 7.8-inch internal screen.

Apple is also reviewing the possibility of launching an 18-inch-class foldable iPad in addition to a book-style foldable. According to Gurman, the large foldable iPad could be delayed until after 2029 due to technical hurdles and a high price. He said there are many issues to resolve in development, including display durability and hinge design. This shows Apple is prioritising user experience and focusing on meeting its quality standards.

Apple is also closely analysing comparisons with rivals' products to establish itself as a leader in the foldable market. Underpinning the approach is a strategic judgement that launching both flip-style and book-style foldable models would broaden consumer choice while strengthening price competitiveness in the premium market and brand loyalty at the same time. It also reflects a calculation that securing stability and durability in foldable devices could, over the long term, help it target a larger share in a market led by Samsung Electronics.

Ultimately, Apple's foldable market strategy is likely to be decided by the commercial performance of the book-style model due to launch this year. The industry expects Apple to use the success of its first product as a stepping stone to expand its lineup to flip-style and large-screen devices, reshaping a foldable market led by Samsung Electronics and further solidifying its dominance in the premium market.