We have been hearing about Apple working on foldable devices for a while now. Turns out the Cupertino-based giant is probably working on two iPhone prototypes that resemble clamshell-like foldable devices such as Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 and Oppo N3 Flip. The devices are currently in their early stages of development and won’t enter production at least until 2025 giving us a probable launch timeline of 2026.
Apple has reportedly working on foldable phones since 2018, however, it paused the program due to display and other issues. As of now, Apple is talking to at least one of the suppliers in Asia to create a supply chain for the purported two foldable iPhones, however, Apple could scrap the project once again if the tech doesn’t meet the high standards set by Apple.
The initial plan was to build a foldable phone with a display on the outside that would fold outwards. However, this poses extreme issues since the durability, scratch-resistance, and design of the foldable device would have to be such that it won’t fall prey to external stimuli such as constant folding and unfolding as well as scratches for any and every surface it comes in contact with.
Apple also wants the device to be as slim as the current line of iPhones which is another point where the engineers will have to work extensively.
The Cupertino-based giant had to pause its plans for foldable iPhones in 2020 and instead concentrated on inward-folding iPads. The latest information about this iPad is that it will have an 8-inch display when unfolded. It is speculated to arrive no sooner than 2026 and that too if it meets Apple’s high standards in terms of components, durability, etc.
With that being said, Apple will have to work extensively on plugging the various technological gaps its first-gen of foldable devices would face. It also includes the infamous display crease that propagates when the display is folded and unfolded over time.
It seems like Apple could be working on both a foldable iPhone and a foldable iPad (that might replace the iPad mini) in parallel although it remains to be confirmed.
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