Leak Reveals iPhone Fold Will Boast Glossy Metallic Glass Hinge for Enhanced Resistance to Bending and Deformation Under Extreme Pressure

Recent reports have revealed exciting details about Apple’s forthcoming foldable iPhone, specifically its innovative hinge technology. This report highlights the use of a liquid metal hinge designed to enhance durability while significantly reducing screen creasing. New leaks provide deeper insights into the material characteristics of this hinge, confirming that Apple is determined to deliver a robust and reliable foldable device.

The iPhone Fold: Embracing Metallic Glass for Enhanced Durability

In a recent update, leaker Instant Digital from Weibo disclosed that Apple has chosen metallic glass, also known as amorphous metal, for the hinge of the iPhone Fold. It’s important to note that metallic glass and liquid metal refer to the same material, with the latter often being used as a marketing term. Metallic glass is distinguished by its unique atomic structure, which is disordered compared to traditional metals that feature repetitive crystalline arrangements, providing several benefits for the iPhone Fold.

One of the standout features of metallic glass is its enhanced resistance to pressure and bending, making it ideal for maintaining the device’s integrity over time. Additionally, its ability to resist dents and deformation offers significant protection in the event of drops. Notably, metallic glass is reported to be up to 2.5 times stronger than titanium alloy, thanks to advanced rapid cooling manufacturing techniques. Visually, the metallic glass offers a sleek, glossy appearance akin to the stainless steel seen on the iPhone 14 Pro models, elevating the overall aesthetic of the device.

Recognizing that mechanical components are vulnerable to wear and tear, Apple has clearly prioritized durability in its design approach. Beyond its robust physical properties, metallic glass is also highly resistant to corrosion, ensuring that the hinge mechanism remains reliable across varying environmental conditions. As the hinge is a critical component of a foldable device, its strength and resilience directly influence the user experience, particularly concerning display quality and crease management.

Apple is no stranger to metallic glass, having previously used the material in SIM ejector pins. However, the iPhone Fold will mark the first significant application of this technology in a major device component, with Dongguan EonTec serving as the exclusive supplier of the metallic glass.

Anticipated features of the iPhone Fold include a generous 7.8-inch internal display, reminiscent of popular models like the Galaxy Z Fold and Pixel Fold, rather than the Galaxy Z Flip series. Furthermore, Bloomberg’s analyst Mark Gurman recently estimated the price of the upcoming foldable device to be around $2, 000, potentially making it Apple’s priciest iPhone to date. Ultimately, the success of the iPhone Fold will heavily depend on its software integration, an aspect that remains to be fully revealed.

Source & Images