Did you know that Apple is currently working on creating foldable iPhones?
Apple maintains its development on foldable iPhones, but they are not likely to launch until 2026 at the earliest.
Today, the major mobile phone manufacturers have launched their foldable models, but the iPhone still needs to join this trend. However, Apple’s plan for folding screens has not been revealed yet. In fact, through its many published folding screen patents and related actions in the industry chain, Apple’s interest in foldable devices can be felt.
There have been many recent speculations that Apple may prioritize a foldable iPad designed to replace the existing iPad Mini. The latest reports showed that Apple is also actively working on two prototypes of foldable iPhones, which have been going on for five years since their inception.
The Information reports that the two iPhone prototypes could fold horizontally like flip phones, according to people with direct knowledge of the project. The devices are still in the early stages of development and are not yet added to Apple’s production plans for 2024 or 2025, so the earliest release date could be 2026.
Apple has approached at least one Asia-based supplier to discuss purchasing components related to the two foldable iPhones of different sizes. It’s worth noting, however, that if these foldable iPhones don’t meet Apple’s high standards, there’s still a chance they’ll never see daylight.
According to the report, Apple is cautious about launching a foldable iPhone.
Apple CEO Tim Cook had already asked designers and engineers about foldable iPhones in 2018 and later gave positive feedback on a prototype of a foldable iPhone with a 7-inch screen.
Apple’s original vision for a foldable iPhone was that the phone would be turned off, with the display on the outside. Engineers have been grappling with the durability issues that come with this design. At the same time, the industrial design team also wanted the device to be no thicker than existing iPhone models when folded, but this seemed difficult to achieve due to battery and display technology limitations.
According to the report, Apple paused the development of a foldable iPhone around 2020 and instead focused on developing an iPad with an inner folding, which is about the size of an iPad Mini and comes with an 8-inch display. Because users don’t expect to put an iPad in their pocket, and the device doesn’t need to meet the same high durability standards as the iPhone, it can be thicker than a foldable iPhone.
Apple is said to be exploring technology to reduce the crease appearing in the middle of the display after multiple folds, hoping to make the device completely flat. They allow users to interact with the screen without barriers and draw freely on the screen using accessories such as the Apple Pencil.
It’s unclear if Apple has successfully addressed these issues. But at least for the iPhone 16 and 17, don’t expect Apple to release a foldable version.
Do you think Apple is right to follow the trend of foldable devices? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to clap if you enjoyed this review. Also, follow or subscribe.
