iPhone Fold will be cheaper thanks to new technology for special components

According to famous analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the special hinge structure of the iPhone Fold could make the production cost $20 to $40 lower than the market's initial predictions.

An iPhone Fold concept. Photo: AppleInsider

Mr. Kuo said that when entering the mass production stage, the average cost to make a hinge for the iPhone Fold will only be around $70–80 per unit.

This price is significantly lower than current estimates of $100–120, saving Apple tens of millions of dollars if produced at scale.

The ability to fold and unfold is the technological highlight of the iPhone Fold, and the hinge is the deciding factor in durability, smoothness and user experience.

Flexible displays need a sturdy hinge mechanism that operates smoothly, without leaving creases or putting too much pressure on the panel.

To achieve that, Apple must invest heavily in researching the hinge mechanism, which is considered the most complex and expensive part of folding smartphone design.

However, according to Kuo, improvements in manufacturing techniques could help the company control costs while still ensuring superior quality.

The job of manufacturing the hinge for the iPhone Fold will be assigned to two major partners in Apple's supply chain: Foxconn - a veteran iPhone assembler; Shin Zu Shing - a company specializing in manufacturing precision mechanical components.

The two companies have formed a joint venture to handle about 65% of total hinge orders, while the rest is handled by Amphenol – an American supplier.

If the iPhone Fold is a commercial success, Apple could expand production to third parties. Rumors suggest that Luxshare, which currently assembles AirPods and some iPhone models, could join after 2027.

Having more competitors is expected to push production costs down further, helping Apple maximize profits.

iPhone Fold concept video . Source: Scene/YouTube

Previous rumors have suggested that the iPhone Fold could be designed like two iPhone Airs joined together by a central hinge.

To keep the device thin, light, and durable, Apple is said to use a titanium and aluminum alloy frame, similar to what it did on the iPhone 15 Pro.

Previously, Ming-Chi Kuo predicted that Apple could use a stainless steel frame combined with a liquid metal hinge, but this would make the device significantly heavier, affecting the grip and user experience.

While the supply chain and engineering plans are becoming clearer, the future of the iPhone Fold remains a big question mark.

Since 2019, Apple's first foldable phone has been rumored to be "only a year away from launch", but has yet to come true.

Kuo did not elaborate on the launch date or the development progress of the project, but the fact that Apple has completed the hinge design and is preparing manufacturing partners suggests that the project is closer than ever.

When competitors like Samsung, Huawei, Oppo or Google have launched many generations of folding smartphones, Apple is forced to enter the race if it does not want to be left behind.

However, true to its “late but perfect” philosophy, the company seems to be waiting for material and mechanical technology to mature to ensure the highest level of user experience.

With the cost of the hinge – one of the most expensive components – falling sharply, the iPhone Fold could become more economically viable.

If everything goes according to plan, this could be the final piece of the puzzle for Apple to officially enter the era of foldable smartphones.

(According to AppleInsider, 9to5mac)

Vietnamnet.vn

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