How Apple makes a foldable iPhone that doesn't fold and is more durable than Samsung

Apple is focusing on improving durability, making the screen surface flatter, and minimizing creases on the foldable device's screen. Photo: Ran Avni .

According to TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the company plans to use liquid alloy hinge technology to create a durable device with no creases on the screen. The first foldable iPhone is expected to launch in 2026.

According to Cult of Mac , competitors have a big lead in the foldable smartphone field. Samsung has launched the 6th generation of the Galaxy Z Fold. However, the problem of the folding screen is still very obvious and concerns about durability mean that these devices still only have a small market share. According to what has been revealed, Apple is doing everything possible to avoid these shortcomings.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said Apple is focusing on improving durability, making the screen surface flatter, and minimizing creases on the foldable device's screen. To achieve this goal, the company will use a liquid alloy pressure molding process to produce important parts such as the hinge.

In fact, Apple has been using liquid alloys for years for small components like SIM ejectors, but with the foldable iPhone, it will be the first time the company has applied liquid metal to a major mechanical part like the hinge.

While the name “liquid metal” might make many people think of mercury, it’s actually an industry term that describes the vacuum die-casting process. The alloys are melted and pressed into molds with high precision, creating parts with exceptional durability. This is an important factor in Apple’s ability to develop a hinge for the foldable iPhone without affecting the user experience.

According to Ming-Chi Kuo, Chinese company Dongguan Yihao Metal will be responsible for producing liquid alloy components for Apple. This is a manufacturing partner of Liquidmetal - a company that holds important technologies related to liquid alloy.

Dongguan Yihao Metal has signed a cooperation agreement to become the main manufacturer for Liquidmetal products. The foldable iPhone could be one of the largest applications of this technology to date.

Kuo isn't alone in his predictions about the foldable iPhone. According to ETnews , Samsung Display has solved a major technical hurdle and is preparing to supply Apple with foldable screens without a visible crease.

The Wall Street Journal previously revealed in late 2024 that Apple had chosen a book-style design for its first foldable iPhone. The device, when opened, would be roughly the size of an iPad mini. Users would experience a larger screen in a foldable design.

Source: https://znews.vn/cach-apple-san-xuat-iphone-gap-khong-nep-gap-ben-hon-samsung-post1540237.html