Apple is reportedly preparing to launch its first foldable smartphone, featuring an innovative hinge design. According to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has indicated that Apple plans to utilize liquid metal technology in the hinge mechanism of its foldable iPhone.
Advantages of using liquid metal in the hinge
The liquid metal hinge, obtained from the Chinese manufacturer Dongguan EonTec at $9 to $14 per unit, offers two significant advantages over traditional designs:
- Increased durability for a longer-lasting product
- Better screen flatness to reduce the visibility of creases
The crease remains one of the most pressing issues for foldable display devices, impacting not only the longevity of these costly panels but also their aesthetic appeal.
Expected to launch in 2026, the foldable iPhone will compete directly with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8. Industry insiders indicate that Apple’s model may come with at least a 20% price increase compared to Samsung’s leading foldable devices. The liquid metal hinge could serve as a crucial differentiator in this premium market.
This won’t be Apple’s first venture into liquid metal; the company has previously utilized the material for smaller components like SIM ejector tools. However, this will mark its most significant use of liquid metal to date.
While Apple’s entry into the foldable market lends credibility to the segment, it may encounter considerable challenges. The company will need to prove the reliability of its first-generation foldable iPhone, which will likely be evaluated against the 8th-generation Galaxy Fold in terms of multitasking software features and compared to the sleek Chinese foldable regarding crease visibility and hinge performance. Nevertheless, it probably won’t need to justify the anticipated higher price.
This development could spark a broader industry trend towards liquid metal components for hinges, potentially compelling Android manufacturers to adapt. Most Android foldable smartphone producers have already tackled durability issues, but the crease problem remains unresolved. It will be fascinating to see how successful Apple is with this innovative hinge.
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