Apple's foldable iPhone will use a liquid metal hinge for better durability and less crease

Innovative Liquid Metal Hinge Set to Transform Foldable iPhone Design and Durability

Apple is stepping into the foldable phone arena, and buzz is building about its upcoming gadget, set to make waves in the foldable smartphone market. The tech giant is determined to debut a flawless foldable iPhone, especially focused on a seamless display experience with minimal creasing.

The key innovation lies in its hinge design. Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that Apple plans to incorporate a liquid metal hinge for its foldable iPhone. This choice isn’t random; it’s deliberate for boosting the device’s durability and reducing the pesky crease marks that have plagued other foldables.

Liquid metal, known for its strength and smoothness, will be crafted through a die-casting process. This technique not only strengthens the hinge but also ensures that the screen remains as flat as possible, mitigating the visual disturbances caused by creases seen in foldables from brands like Samsung and Google.

Interestingly, Apple has dabbled with liquid metal before, using it for SIM ejector pins. However, this will be the first time the company employs it on a larger scale, with Dongguan EonTec selected as the exclusive supplier for the foldable iPhone’s hinge component.

As for the foldable iPhone itself, rumors suggest it will feature a 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch cover display, drawing comparisons to devices like the Google Pixel Fold. Unlike the clamshell design of the Galaxy Z Flip, Apple might opt for a book-style fold, akin to the Galaxy Z Fold.

Camera aficionados can expect a dual rear camera setup coupled with a single front camera. Another interesting design choice is the inclusion of Touch ID embedded in the Home Button, taking inspiration from the iPad Air and iPad mini rather than employing Face ID. When unfolded, this device could be Apple’s slimmest yet at just 4.5mm thickness, doubling to 9.5mm when closed.

Enthusiasts eager for this innovation might have to wait a bit longer, with mass production slated for the last quarter of 2026. This timeline suggests that the foldable iPhone could hit the market in early 2027, potentially setting a new standard in the foldable phone segment.