'Insaitem' Like Z Flip... "Apple to Release Foldable iPhone as Early as 2026"

"Samsung Electronics Galaxy Z Flip-like Appearance"

There is a forecast that a "folding iPhone" similar in form to Samsung's so-called "folding technology" applied in the Galaxy Z Flip series will be released. The photo shows singer Sunmi, who has been using the Galaxy Z Flip for several years. (Image source=Sunmi SNS capture)

[Image source=AFP Yonhap News]

Apple is reportedly accelerating the development of a 'foldable' iPhone. According to IT specialist media The Information, we may be able to see a foldable iPhone as early as 2026.

There have been repeated reports that the development of a foldable iPhone was put on hold, mainly due to battery and display issues. The components from partner companies failed to meet Apple's high standards. There was even speculation that an iPad, rather than an iPhone, might showcase a foldable display first. The reasoning was that "foldable iPads would not spend long periods in users' pockets, and the device would be thicker than an iPhone, so in terms of durability, (the iPad) has more advantages."

[Image source=Photo by Sajin Sok / YTN video capture]

However, this recent report states that Apple's foldable phone development is progressing. It also mentioned that Apple has recently been in contact with suppliers in Asia to confirm the availability of components for the new device. The appearance of the 'foldable' iPhone is expected to resemble Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Z Flip series, featuring a 'clamshell' design. Apple obtained a patent for a 'foldable' device in February last year.

Citizens are lined up in front of the Apple Store Hongdae branch in Mapo-gu, Seoul, taking photos.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

Samsung developed it in 2019... Triple foldables are imminent in China

Foldable phones were first introduced worldwide by Samsung Electronics in 2019. Since then, Chinese companies have rushed into this market. Recently, Chinese company Huawei announced plans to release a foldable phone developed over five years, leading to predictions of the emergence of triple foldable phones.

The foldable phone market is expected to expand further. Market research firm TrendForce predicted that foldable phones would account for 1.5% of total smartphone shipments this year, but this figure is expected to rise to 4.8% by 2028.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.