Apple is Reportedly Developing a Clamshell Foldable iPhone: What We Know So Far

Highlights

• Apple has been developing foldable iPhone prototypes since 2018.
• Two clamshell-style foldable iPhones are under active development.
• Apple aims for a design half as thin as current iPhones when folded.
• Key challenges include achieving a crease-free display and integrating essential components.

After venturing into the realm of ‘Spatial Computing’ or Mixed Reality, Apple is venturing into the realm of foldable technology, a domain that has gained significant attention in the smartphone industry.

Reports from The Information reveal that Apple has been experimenting with foldable iPhone concepts since 2018.

It’s being reported that at least two clamshell-style foldable iPhone prototypes are under development, but there is no concrete information on when they might see the light of day for consumers.

Apple’s Foldable iPhone: A Glimpse into the Future

According to insider information, the foldable iPhone project is in its nascent stages, indicating that a market release is still being determined.

In parallel, Apple is also exploring a larger foldable iPad, which has been in development for a while.

As a matter of fact, the report states that the foldable iPhone project experienced a temporary pause in 2020 as Apple redirected its focus towards developing the foldable iPad, which, due to its larger form factor, faces less rigorous durability requirements.

Apple’s vision for its foldable devices is ambitious, aiming to produce a phone that, when closed, is half the thickness of current iPhone models.

This endeavor to create a sleek, compact foldable device presents significant engineering challenges, particularly concerning the integration of essential components like batteries and displays without compromising on the device’s slim profile.

However, is known for being a shining light when it comes to the hardware engineering of its products, so there is still hope for the product.

Deliberations and Prototypes

There have also been recent discussions with Asian manufacturers about component orders for a foldable iPhone in two distinct sizes.

Even so, Apple’s stringent design and functionality standards could put a damper on the project’s future.

One of the key objectives for Apple’s foldable devices is achieving a crease-free display, ensuring that the device lays flat and supports seamless interaction, including compatibility with the Apple Pencil.

The Cupertino giant is bound to face the same hurdles as the Samsung, Motorola, and more have faced, so let’s see how the company tackles it.

FAQs

When did Apple begin developing the foldable iPhone?

Apple started exploring foldable iPhone concepts back in 2018 and has since developed at least two clamshell-style prototypes.

What is Apple’s goal with the foldable iPhone design?

Apple’s ambition is to create a foldable device that is significantly slimmer than existing models, aiming for a sleek profile even when the device is folded shut.

Are there any known challenges in the foldable iPhone’s development?

Yes, engineering hurdles such as maintaining a thin profile while accommodating batteries and displays, and achieving a crease-free screen are significant challenges Apple is addressing.

Has Apple made any progress with foldable technology in other products?

Alongside the foldable iPhone, Apple has also been working on a foldable iPad, which due to its larger size, faces less stringent durability requirements.

What’s the current status of the foldable iPhone project?

The foldable iPhone project is in early development stages, with discussions on component orders ongoing. However, it may be cancelled if it doesn’t meet Apple’s high design standards.

What is Apple’s foldable device expected to be?

Apple is currently exploring foldable technology that could result in either a foldable iPhone or iPad. The decision is yet to be finalized, with patent sketches fueling speculation.

When can we expect Apple to launch its foldable device?

Industry insiders speculate that Apple’s foldable device could debut as early as 2026 or as late as 2027, marking a significant entry into foldable tech.

Who are the potential suppliers for Apple’s foldable panels?

Apple has been evaluating foldable panel samples from both Samsung Display and LG Display. Samsung Display is reportedly taking a more active role, positioning itself as a likely supplier.

What challenges does Apple face in developing its foldable device?

Apple, Samsung Display, and LG Display are navigating complexities around ultra-thin glass material, foldable panel cover, and hinge design to ensure the device’s durability and reliability.

Is there a larger foldable device in development by Apple?

Yes, Apple is rumored to be working on a more ambitious 20.5-inch foldable device that could follow the initial 7- to 8-inch model, potentially redefining the foldable market.

When is Apple’s foldable iPad expected to be released?

The foldable iPad is anticipated to enter mass production by the end of 2024.

What are the technical challenges Apple is facing?

One major hurdle is the visible crease in foldable displays, though strides are being made in mechanical design to mitigate this issue.

Why is Apple focusing on a foldable iPad rather than an iPhone?

The iPad constitutes a smaller percentage of Apple’s sales, making it a strategic choice for testing new, risky technology.

What is the expected price point for the foldable iPad?

Analysts speculate that the price could start at well over $2,000.

Is Apple actually coming with a Foldable IPhone ?

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said, as reported by MacRumors, that “Apple will likely launch a foldable iPhone with an 8-inch QHD Plus flexible OLED display in 2023.”

He revised his prediction, in a tweet this past April, to say that it might be 2025 before there’s a foldable screen device from Apple.

How much would you pay for a foldable iPhone?

Foldable phones ain’t cheap. The Galaxy Z Fold 4 starts at $1,800 and the Galaxy Z Flip 4 at $1,000.

And it’s no surprise that prices for Apple products are at the higher end.
So if an iPhone 14 Pro that doesn’t fold in half already costs $1,000, what would be the price for one that does?

For a foldable iPhone to be successful, Apple would need to create a problem-solving design, scale manufacturing without sacrificing quality and develop hardware along with software that make the most of its foldable build.

The price would also have to be premium, but not too high.

How will the Apple Foldable Camera be ?

Foldable iPhone camera While the folding iPhone is at a very early stage and there’s no information about the cameras Apple is planning for it, we can reasonably expect it to have ultra-wide and telephoto cameras, alongside a main one.

And of course, a front-facing selfie camera, possibly inside a notch or using under-display technology, which should have matured enough by 2022.

How will the Foldable iPhone software be ?

If Apple designs a foldable iPhone akin to the Galaxy Z Flip or Moto Razr (2020), then its iOS software won’t need to be too different from that on the average iPhone. The only notable addition would be a new notification screen for the phone’s potential secondary display.

However, if the foldable iPhone is like the Galaxy Z Fold 2 or Surface Duo, meaning that it will unfold into a tablet, there’s the potential for iOS to switch to iPadOS on the fly when the user unfolds the iPhone.

Not that iPadOS is notably different from iOS, but its interface is better optimized for larger displays, and it offers split-screen multitasking.

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