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For many people, smartphones have become an everyday essential that is carried around with them everywhere.

And a new gun built by an American startup is designed to look exactly like one.

The flat double-barreled pistol has a folding grip that locks into place. When it's closed, the trigger guard is completely hidden - giving it the appearance of an iPhone inside a case.

The gun has been created by a company from Minnesota in the US called Ideal Conceal . The company is waiting for patent approval on the firearm.

(Image: Ideal Conceal)

"What's disturbing is that this looks like a real smartphone," said Andrew Patrick, deputy communications director at the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence.

"There are countless stories of children playing with toy guns who were shot, because it was mistaken for the real thing," he told the Daily Mail .

"This gun is not only dangerous, but it is also irresponsible."

Listed for sale at $395 (£208), the .308 calibre gun is billed as "a high quality handgun that can be deployed very quickly for the defense of you or your family."

(Image: Ideal Conceal)

"The company writes on its website: "The idea for Ideal Conceal follows the present-day demand for handguns that people can carry on a day to day basis, in a manner that makes carrying a gun easy to do.

"From soccer moms to professionals of every type, this gun allows you the option of not being a victim."

The company has a Facebook page where it responds to the queries about the dangers of a gun designed as a phone.

(Image: Ideal Conceal)

As with any handgun, it would be illegal to own in the UK. Any potential US owners would need to be aware of state and local laws on concealed carry regulations.