Apple’s rumored foldable iPhone continues to attract attention, particularly regarding its hinge design, which is reportedly being crafted from liquid metal. A reliable Weibo tipster suggests that this “amorphous alloy” is 2.5 times stronger than titanium, enhancing rigidity and longevity. The durable material could also help reduce or eliminate the display crease commonly associated with foldable devices. To support the flexible OLED display, Apple is reportedly collaborating with hardware suppliers to address crease issues while ensuring resistance to bending and pressure. Overall, the advancements in hinge technology are crucial for the foldable iPhone’s potential release.
The foldable iPhone from Apple has reached mythic status at this stage, but recent updates are intriguing. The latest buzz revolves around the hinge. A reliable tipster on Weibo, known for accurate Apple-related insights, claims that the company is developing the hinge using liquid metal.
This isn’t the first time we’ve encountered this information. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously suggested that Apple might utilize liquid metal for the hinge of the upcoming iPhone Fold (assuming that’s the name they choose for marketing). Opting for liquid metal offers multiple advantages, primarily its rigidity. As the rumor suggests, this “amorphous alloy” or “metallic glass” is 2.5 times stronger than titanium, making it an ideal candidate for the hinge.
The amorphous particle structure is resistant to bending, deformation, and pressure, enhancing both the durability of the hinge and the overall device lifespan. Additionally, the hinge design could potentially reduce or completely eliminate any display crease.
To support the flexible display effectively, strong backing is necessary to help the panel withstand pressures from finger touches and bending. Naturally, improvements in flexible OLED technology are essential as well, and it appears Apple is actively collaborating with hardware suppliers to address crease elimination.
Source (in Chinese)