Apple working on foldable iPhone to rival Samsung, designs prototype screen
Apple Inc. has begun early work on an iPhone with a
foldable screen, a potential rival to similar devices from Samsung Electronics
Co. and others, though it’s planning only minor changes for this year’s iPhone
line.
The Cupertino, California-based company has developed prototype
foldable screens for internal testing, but hasn’t solidified plans to actually
launch a foldable iPhone. The
development work hasn’t expanded beyond a display, meaning Apple doesn’t yet
have full handset prototypes in its labs, according to a person familiar with
the work, who asked not to be identified discussing private matters.
Like Samsung’s Galaxy Fold, the Motorola Razr reboot and other
offerings from Chinese companies including Huawei Technologies Co., a foldable iPhone would
let Apple make a device with a larger screen in a more pocketable package.
Apple has internally discussed a number of foldable screen sizes, including one
that unfolds to a similar size as the 6.7-inch display on the iPhone 12 Pro
Max. Current foldable phones have screens that are from 6 and 8 inches
unfolded.
The foldable Apple screens in testing, like those from Samsung,
have a mostly invisible hinge with the electronics stationed behind the
display, the person said. Other companies, including Microsoft Corp., have
recently launched devices with visible hinges separating two distinct panels.
An Apple spokeswoman declined to comment.
This would be a radical departure for Apple. Its pioneering
touchable, all-screen smartphone is arguably the most successful consumer
technology product in history, helping make Apple the world’s most valuable
company. However, a foldable iPhone is
likely years away or ultimately may never be introduced. The company is
currently focused on launching its next-generation flagship iPhones and iPads
later this year.
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