Apple's First Foldable iPhone: Liquid Metal Hinge, 20,000 RMB Price Tag, and a Samsung Display Powerhouse Collaboration

Apple's First Foldable iPhone: Liquid Metal Hinge, 20,000 RMB Price Tag, and a Samsung Display Powerhouse CollaborationConsidering Apple's typical lead time for supply chain finalization (12-18 months) before product launches, the first foldable iPhone is expected to release in the second half of next year. Given its high-end positioning and innovative technology, the price is expected to align with high-end tri-fold phones, potentially reaching around 20,000 RMB

Apple's First Foldable iPhone: Liquid Metal Hinge, 20,000 RMB Price Tag, and a Samsung Display Powerhouse Collaboration

Recent leaks surrounding the design of the upcoming iPhone 17 series are rampant, but even more captivating is the latest news about Apple's first foldable phone. Various reports suggest this highly anticipated device is nearing launch, promising groundbreaking advancements in key technologies. According to recent analyst reports, Apple will utilize liquid metal in the crucial hinge components, employing a die-casting process to enhance the durability, screen flatness, and eliminate creases in its foldable iPhone. While Apple has used liquid metal for some time, the foldable iPhone will mark its first large-scale application in a core component. The report predicts that the liquid metal will add approximately 70 to 100 RMB to the cost of each foldable iPhone. This increased cost will inevitably impact the final product's price, fueling consumer anticipation regarding its cost. The report also suggests that other Android manufacturers might adopt liquid metal for their hinges more aggressively to compete with Apple's foldable offering.

Previous leaks indicate Apple's first foldable iPhone will feature a large, horizontally folding design, with a prototype outer screen measuring approximately 5.49 inches and an inner screen of about 7.74 inches. This is remarkably close to the 5.4-inch screen size of the iPhone 13 mini, implying the folded device's dimensions will be similar to the iPhone 13 mini. Sources suggest the foldable phone will likely incorporate Apple's self-developed modem and under-display camera technology. The folded thickness is estimated at 9.2 mm, with each side measuring 4.6 mm. The unfolded inner screen area is equivalent to that of two 6.1-inch iPhone screens combined. To achieve the ideal folding effect, Apple has imposed extremely stringent technical requirements on its screen suppliers, demanding industry-leading performance in thickness, size, curvature radius, and a complete solution to the creasing problems common in current foldable phones. Reports suggest Apple is satisfied with the latest display samples provided by Samsung.

The core display (OLED) of the foldable iPhone will reportedly be exclusively supplied by Samsung Display and utilize an inward-folding design. Other specifications include a battery capacity approaching 5000 mAh, and a front-facing camera employing Metalens technology also slated for the iPhone 17 Pro Max which will help reduce the size of the Dynamic Island. Furthermore, Apple's complete ecosystem, including iOS, the App Store, iCloud, and Apple Music, ensures a seamless user experience. The foldable iPhone will enrich Apple's ecosystem further and cater to the demand for larger screen experiences.

Considering Apple's typical lead time for supply chain finalization (12-18 months) before product launches, the first foldable iPhone is expected to release in the second half of next year. Given its high-end positioning and innovative technology, the price is expected to align with high-end tri-fold phones, potentially reaching around 20,000 RMB.

Beyond the foldable iPhone, Apple appears to be developing a foldable iPad as well. Leaks suggest Apple similarly aims to eliminate creases on the upcoming foldable iPad, achieving a completely flat, glass-like appearance. The final performance of both foldable devices will undoubtedly garner significant industry attention.

The use of liquid metal is a key highlight of Apple's foldable phone. This material boasts high strength, lightweight properties, and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for the hinge, enhancing durability and reducing creases. The die-casting process ensures precise distribution and seamless integration of the liquid metal within the hinge components, further improving reliability and stability. The 70-100 RMB price tag for the liquid metal reflects Apple's commitment to product quality and user experience.

Samsung Display, a leading global display supplier with renowned OLED screen technology, has been chosen as the exclusive supplier for the foldable iPhone's core display, highlighting Apple's recognition of Samsung's technological prowess. Samsung's ability to meet Apple's stringent requirements regarding screen thickness, size, curvature radius, and crease elimination lays a solid foundation for the success of Apple's foldable iPhone.

A battery capacity approaching 5000 mAh will provide ample battery life for the foldable iPhone, meeting everyday user needs. Metalens technology will further enhance the front-facing camera's image quality and minimize the Dynamic Island's size, improving the overall aesthetics of the phone.

Apple's complete ecosystem is a significant competitive advantage for its foldable phone. The smooth user experience of iOS, the extensive app resources of the App Store, the convenient data storage and synchronization capabilities of iCloud, and the vast music library of Apple Music will provide a seamless interconnected user experience. This will maximize user retention and solidify Apple's position as a premium brand.

The projected 20,000 RMB price tag, while expensive, may be acceptable considering the technological, design, material, and ecosystem advantages of Apple's foldable iPhone, along with its high-end positioning. Many consumers are willing to pay a premium for Apple's brand and innovative technologies.

The launch of Apple's foldable phone and foldable iPad will mark a significant step for Apple in the foldable device market. The success of these two products will have a profound impact on the future development of the foldable device market. Whether Apple can leverage its technological strength and brand influence to secure a foothold in the fiercely competitive foldable device market remains to be seen. Currently, rumors and leaks about Apple's foldable phone are rampant, and specifics await official confirmation from Apple. However, based on the current information, Apple's first foldable iPhone is poised to be a highly anticipated technological product with promising market performance.