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| Source : Let's go Digital |
While Apple has not made any official announcement regarding the release of a foldable smartphone, it is possible that they may consider launching one in the future. The company is known for adopting new technologies and introducing innovative products, and a foldable smartphone could be a logical next step in this direction.
However, there may be several technical and practical challenges that Apple would need to address before launching a foldable smartphone. These could include issues related to durability, screen quality, and software optimization. Additionally, competition from other smartphone manufacturers who have already launched their own foldable devices could also impact Apple's decision to enter the market.
Overall, while the possibility of Apple launching a foldable smartphone cannot be ruled out, it is difficult to predict when or if this will happen.
1. Apple Foldable Patents
Apple has filed several patents related to foldable devices, indicating that they are exploring the development of a foldable iPhone or iPad. Some of the patents filed by Apple include.
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| Apple Foldable Patent |
① Foldable iPad
Apple has filed a patent for a foldable iPad that can be used in various modes, such as a tablet or laptop mode. The patent describes a device with a flexible display that can be folded in different ways to create a variety of form factors.
② Clamshell Design
Apple has also filed a patent for a clamshell-style foldable device, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip or Motorola Razr. The patent describes a device with a flexible display that can be folded in half, with one half serving as the display and the other half serving as the back cover.
③ Flexible Display
Apple has filed patents related to flexible displays that can be folded and unfolded without damage. One such patent describes a foldable display that uses a flexible substrate to prevent cracking or breaking.
④ Hinge Mechanism
Another patent filed by Apple relates to a hinge mechanism that can be used in a foldable device. The hinge mechanism is designed to allow the display to fold and unfold smoothly without causing damage to the screen.
While these patents provide some indication of Apple's interest in foldable devices, it's important to note that companies often file patents for technologies they may never use.
2. Will Apple Use Samsung Display's Foldable Panel?
Apple and Samsung Display have had a complex relationship over the years. While they are direct competitors in the smartphone and tablet markets, Samsung Display is also one of Apple's key suppliers of display panels.
Apple has been using Samsung Display's OLED screens in its iPhone models since the release of the iPhone X in 2017. Samsung Display is currently the largest supplier of OLED displays in the world, and Apple is one of its biggest customers. In fact, reports suggest that Apple is heavily reliant on Samsung Display for the supply of OLED panels, and Samsung Display is said to be the sole supplier for the latest iPhone models.
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| Samsung Display Foldable Pannel |
Samsung Display is currently the leading supplier of foldable display panels in the market. The company has already released several foldable devices, such as the Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip, which use its own foldable display panels. It's likely that Samsung Display will continue to develop and supply foldable panels to other smartphone manufacturers, including Apple.
Moreover, Apple has a long-standing business relationship with Samsung Display and currently uses Samsung's OLED panels in its iPhone models. If Apple decides to develop a foldable device, Samsung Display could be a natural supplier for foldable panels, as it already has the technology and expertise to produce them.
However, it's also possible that Apple may choose to develop its own foldable display technology, as the company has a history of investing in research and development. Apple has filed several patents related to foldable devices, indicating that it's exploring the development of its own foldable display technology.
In conclusion, it's unclear whether Apple will use Samsung Display's foldable panels or develop its own technology for a future foldable device.
3. Pros and cons of foldable smartphones
① Merit
■ Large display
Foldable smartphones have a larger display than traditional smartphones, which can make it easier to read and view content such as videos and images.
■ Portability
When folded, foldable smartphones are more compact and easier to carry around than traditional smartphones with large screens.
■ Multitasking
Some foldable smartphones have the ability to display multiple apps side-by-side, allowing users to multitask more efficiently.
■ Unique design
Foldable smartphones are still a relatively new technology, and they offer a unique and eye-catching design that can set them apart from traditional smartphones.
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| Source : Macbook Folio |
② Demerit
■ Durability
Foldable smartphones are more fragile than traditional smartphones, and their folding screens are more prone to damage.
■ Price
Foldable smartphones are generally more expensive than traditional smartphones, which can make them less accessible for some consumers.
■ Battery life
Some foldable smartphones have smaller batteries than traditional smartphones, which can limit their overall battery life.
■ App compatibility
Some apps may not be optimized for foldable screens, which can lead to a less-than-ideal user experience.
■ Weight
Foldable smartphones are often heavier than traditional smartphones due to their additional components, which can make them less comfortable to hold for extended periods of time.
