According to sources from The Information, Apple is carrying out a promising project to develop a foldable iPhone screen.
Since early 2018, Apple has been quietly testing and currently owns at least two clamshell folding iPhone prototypes.
Foldable iPhone and iPad
However, users will have to wait quite a while to see the finished product because the project is still in the early stages of research and faces many challenges.
In addition to the foldable iPhone, Apple is said to be simultaneously developing a larger foldable iPad. According to component orders found at manufacturing partners in Asia, the foldable iPhone will come in two different sizes.
However, The Information also warned that the project could be canceled if the finished product does not meet Apple's strict design standards.
The "Apple" industrial design department is working to create a phone that is half as thin as current iPhone models. The goal is that when folded, the device will not be too thick. The solution of folding the screen outward instead of inward was considered, but encountered barriers from components such as batteries and display panels.
Apple is working on a solution to minimize the crease in the middle of the screen, which involves the hinge mechanism. The company wants the device to be completely flat.
It is unclear when these projects will be successful. According to a report by The Elec, Apple may prioritize launching a 7- to 8-inch foldable device around 2026-2027.
Meanwhile, according to a source from 9to5Mac, Apple is developing its first foldable iPhone and is expected to launch it in 2026. The foldable iPhone is said to have a vertical folding design from top to bottom, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, instead of a horizontal folding style like the Galaxy Z Fold. The size when opened will be similar to current iPhone models. Apple is said to have signed a contract with Samsung Display to supply screen panels for this device.
Competing with Chinese smartphones
Initially, Apple planned to launch a foldable iPad first to test the market. However, due to challenges in the Chinese smartphone market, where foldable phones are becoming increasingly popular, Apple has decided to change its strategy and may launch a foldable iPhone first.
iPhone sales in China have been declining in recent quarters, with the popularity of foldable phones in the market seen as one of the reasons. The launch of a foldable iPhone could help Apple regain its footing in this important market.
The first foldable iPhone would present both risks and opportunities for Apple. It is a new and unproven technology on a large scale, especially for a flagship product like the iPhone. However, if successful, the foldable iPhone could provide a major boost to sales and cement Apple's leadership in the premium smartphone market.