Apple foldables could soon be a reality, as the Cupertino giant is said to have at least two active prototypes marked by clamshell-type folding action. Of course, this isn’t the first time the iPhone maker has dabbled in foldable phones, as the nearly $3-trillion tech giant first dived into explorations as early as 2018.
As per a report by The Information, based on inputs from a person with direct knowledge, Apple is devising prototypes of at least two iPhone models that can fold up like a clamshell (widthwise).
Of course, it should be kept in mind that this is just a prototype that’s being reported about. Even The Information cautions that the project’s fate hinges on whether the final product aligns with Apple’s stringent design standards.
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Apple’s Foray With Foldables
Interestingly, around 2020, Apple purportedly shifted focus towards an inward-folding iPad akin to the size of an iPad mini, temporarily sidelining the foldable iPhone initiative. This pivot is attributed to the comparatively lax durability requirements for an iPad form factor, coupled with the device’s diminished portability expectations.
Efforts are underway to mitigate the crease that inevitably manifests in the middle of the display after repeated folding. Of course, Apple would want to position the product on its premium spectrum, which will necessitate compatibility with accessories such as the Apple Pencil, which demands a flat surface.
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The Information report delves into the ambitions of Apple’s industrial design team, which seeks to create a device significantly thinner than current iPhone models when folded shut, while also contemplating outward-facing screens for enhanced usability. Yet, practical considerations surrounding components like batteries and displays present formidable hurdles for engineers striving to realise these objectives.
Despite these endeavours, the resolution of key technical challenges remains uncertain, reports 9To5Mac. For prospective consumers eagerly anticipating a foldable iPhone, it’s advisable to temper expectations. Reports of a foldable iPhone potentially slated for release in 2025 appear increasingly speculative, with Apple possibly pushing back this timeline.