Apple is reportedly developing a foldable iPhone, slated for release in 2026. Apple, once an icon of innovation, now appears to be chasing Samsung Electronics in not only artificial intelligence (AI) but additionally foldable design.
Citing two sources, The Information reported on the twenty third (local time) that Apple is developing an iPhone to be released in 2026 and recently asked Asian suppliers to make parts for the device.
In keeping with this, the foldable iPhone that Apple will release as early as 2026 can be a kind that unfolds vertically like Samsung Electronics’ Galaxy Z Flip.
In fact, Apple is well-known for canceling projects within the latter stages of development, so there’s no guarantee that a foldable iPhone can be released. But when it does, it might represent considered one of the most important hardware design changes in Apple’s iPhone history.
Apple has given the product an internal codename of “V68,” which implies the thought isn’t any longer on the concept stage but is now an official product under development with suppliers. While a typical iPhone model takes 24 months to go from idea to production, the foldable iPhone is reportedly a brand new endeavor and will take even longer.
Particularly, it is alleged that two issues were highlighted within the production of the foldable iPhone. The primary is that it mustn’t be too thick when folded, and the second is that it must have attractive functions while making the most of the characteristics of the foldable. It is alleged that Apple designers had a very difficult time developing the functions.
The foldable phone was first introduced by Chinese startup Royole in 2018. Nevertheless, Royole recently went bankrupt, and Samsung Electronics has maintained an awesome market share since 2019.
As well as, Samsung held an Unpacked event in Paris, France on the tenth and differentiated itself by adding AI features to the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6.
Meanwhile, prior to this, in May, it was reported that Apple was developing a thinner iPhone. It was reported that extensive hardware enhancements were underway, including a physical button on the lower right side to take photos and videos, a neater solution to replace the battery, alternative of materials to stop overheating, and the installation of a sophisticated optical zoom lens.
Apple declined to comment.
Reporter Im Dae-jun ydj@aitimes.com
