It looks like Apple’s first foldable iPhone is finally entering the production stage, as tipsters have given up on speculating if there will be an iPhone Fold and are now figuring out what materials will protect its screen, just to see how the iPhone Fold competes with Samsung’s top-notch foldable models like the Galaxy X Flip models.
Innovative material to increase durability
With reference to a report from 9to5Mac, Elec noted that Apple is striving to improve the durability of the iPhone Fold’s screen by installing a built-in screen protector that offers both hardness and scratch resistance.
Given the challenges of using external screen protectors, the iPhone Fold’s standard would be a welcome addition.
Samsung foldable vs iPhone Fold
The report also outlined that Apple is using materials that are stronger than those found in Samsung’s foldable devices. Samsung currently uses polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in models like the Z Fold 7. Although Apple may also use PET, it is expected to add an extra layer of polyimide (PI) film for better protection.
As highlighted in the 9to5Mac report, “Apple’s consideration of transparent PI film as a protective layer over the UTG, unlike Samsung Electronics, appears to be a differentiation strategy. An industry insider explained, “Transparent PI film is more expensive than PET film, but its higher surface hardness makes it more scratch-resistant.”
It should be noted that Samsung took several generations to refine the durability of its foldables, and Apple doesn’t seem to be taking any chances with its first-generation foldable iPhone, especially given that foldable iPhones present unique challenges, including hinge durability, increased potential for dust and water intrusion, and screen thinness.
As for when the iPhone Fold might launch, it is said to be on track for a 2026 launch, and if it lives up to expectations, Apple may consider introducing a flip phone next.
