Apple's First Foldable iPhone: Liquid Metal Technology and a 2027 Launch Outlook

Apple's First Foldable iPhone: Liquid Metal Technology and a 2027 Launch OutlookRumors surrounding Apple's first foldable iPhone are heating up. It's no longer a question of if, but when and how

Apple's First Foldable iPhone: Liquid Metal Technology and a 2027 Launch Outlook

• Rumors surrounding Apple's first foldable iPhone are heating up. It's no longer a question of if, but when and how. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently predicted that Apple plans to utilize "liquid metal" technology in its upcoming foldable iPhone to optimize the hinge design, aiming to enhance durability and address the persistent screen crease problem plaguing foldable phones.

Current foldable phones, despite continuous improvements, haven't completely eliminated screen creases. Apple seems to have found a solution, planning to highlight it as a major feature of its first foldable iPhone. Kuo indicates that Apple will employ liquid metal, processed through die-casting, in the hinge of the foldable iPhone. This material combines high strength and durability, enabling a flatter screen when unfolded and minimizing crease formation.

• It's important to clarify that the "liquid metal" here isn't the flowing silver liquid depicted in the movie Terminator. It refers to amorphous alloys, a type of novel amorphous metallic glass material that exhibits excellent mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of both ordinary metals and glass. Notably, Apple has already used similar materials in other products, such as the SIM ejector tool included in iPhone packaging. The upcoming foldable iPhone will mark Apple's first large-scale application of liquid metal in a core mechanical component.

Beyond technological innovation, the foldable iPhone's design is also starting to emerge. Earlier reports suggest a 7.8-inch inner screen when unfolded and a 5.5-inch outer screen when folded, adopting a book-style design rather than a clamshell "flip" form factor.

In terms of other specifications, the rumored foldable iPhone might feature dual rear cameras and a single front camera, integrating Touch ID into the power button. Its slim design is another highlight, with a thickness of only 4.5 mm when unfolded and between 9 and 9.5 mm when folded. Apple is clearly committed to showcasing its high-end craftsmanship and refined design in this product, striving for the optimal balance between thinness and durability.

However, the most concerning factor for consumers is undoubtedly the price. Analysts predict a starting price of $2300 for Apple's foldable iPhone, making it potentially the most expensive iPhone ever. This high price reflects Apple's investment in materials, craftsmanship, and technology, and underscores its positioning in the high-end market.

Regarding the release date, Kuo predicts mass production to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026, meaning a possible launch in late 2026 or early 2027. Consumers may need to wait some time to experience this highly anticipated device.

Whether Apple's foldable iPhone truly eliminates creases remains to be seen until the actual release. However, based on current information, it's clear Apple has invested significant R&D efforts in foldable screen technology, attempting to solve long-standing challenges through innovative materials and sophisticated craftsmanship. The application of liquid metal technology and the slim design demonstrate Apple's confidence and ambition for this product.

While the $2300 starting price is staggering, considering Apple's brand premium and influence in the high-end market, this foldable iPhone is still expected to attract many consumers. Whether it becomes the next blockbuster will depend on its ultimate performance, user experience, and market acceptance. This is not only crucial for Apple's position in the foldable phone market but also for its competitiveness in the high-end smartphone sector in the future.

Apple has always been known for its meticulous attention to detail and mastery of innovative technologies. The launch of this foldable iPhone will undoubtedly be a significant attempt by Apple in the mobile device field, testing its ability to overcome the technological challenges posed by foldable phones and provide consumers with a truly satisfying product.

This phone represents not only a breakthrough in foldable screen technology for Apple but also its exploration of the future direction of mobile devices. Whether it becomes the next bestseller depends not only on its performance and price but also on the overall market acceptance of foldable phones and Apple's ability to seamlessly integrate new technology with user experience.

From a technological standpoint, the application of liquid metal is a significant highlight of Apple's foldable iPhone, but its effectiveness in solving the crease problem needs to be verified through real-world experience. Furthermore, the high price will be a crucial consideration; whether consumers are willing to pay for this new technology will directly impact the product's market performance.

In summary, the launch of Apple's first foldable iPhone is highly anticipated. It will be a crucial step in Apple's competition in the foldable phone market and will influence the future direction of foldable phones to some extent. Whether this phone becomes the next blockbuster remains to be seen, but its technological innovation and market positioning are worth anticipating and observing. Whether Apple can leverage its advantages in design, craftsmanship, and brand to secure a place in the fiercely competitive foldable phone market will be a focal point in the coming years. The application of liquid metal technology is undoubtedly a bold attempt by Apple in this field, and its success or failure will have a profound impact on the entire industry. This is more than just a phone; it's another bold exploration and attempt by Apple in the future of mobile technology.