Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone has once again become the subject of speculation, with a new report suggesting the company may adopt an outward-folding design similar to the Huawei Mate Xs 2. The claim comes from noted Apple analyst Jeff Pu, who believes Apple is exploring a different approach to foldable smartphones as it continues to develop its first flexible-screen device. While the foldable iPhone is still believed to be several years away, the latest report offers fresh insight into Apple’s potential design strategy. (macrumors.com)
Outward-Folding Display Could Set Apple Apart
Unlike most foldable smartphones currently on the market, which fold inward like a book, an outward-folding design places the flexible display on the outside of the device. This eliminates the need for a separate cover display, allowing users to interact with the main screen whether the device is folded or unfolded.
If Apple adopts this approach, the foldable iPhone could offer:
- A single flexible OLED display
- Seamless transition between phone and tablet modes
- Thinner overall design
- Reduced component complexity
- Larger usable display when folded
The design closely resembles Huawei’s Mate Xs 2, one of the few commercially available smartphones with an outward-folding display. (macrumors.com)
Why Apple Might Choose This Design
An outward-folding display offers several potential advantages:
- No need for a secondary external screen
- Slimmer and lighter device profile
- Larger screen available at all times
- More immersive viewing experience
However, this design also presents challenges. Since the display remains exposed even when folded, it may be more vulnerable to scratches, accidental impacts, and everyday wear. Apple would likely need to develop stronger protective materials and advanced hinge technology to address these durability concerns.
Apple Is Taking Its Time
Unlike competitors such as Samsung, Huawei, Honor, and OnePlus, Apple has yet to enter the foldable smartphone market.
Industry analysts believe the company is deliberately delaying its launch until it can overcome several key challenges, including:
- Display crease visibility
- Hinge durability
- Battery efficiency
- Long-term reliability
- User experience optimization
Apple is known for refining existing technologies before bringing them to market, and the foldable iPhone is expected to follow the same strategy.
Launch Still Years Away
Current reports suggest Apple’s first foldable iPhone is unlikely to arrive before 2026 or later. Some analysts even believe the company may prioritize a foldable iPad or MacBook before introducing a foldable iPhone.
At this stage, the device remains under development, and Apple has not confirmed any plans regarding its design or launch timeline. As with many early-stage Apple projects, the final product could differ significantly from current rumors.
Competition in the Foldable Market
If Apple enters the foldable smartphone segment, it will face established competitors offering increasingly refined devices, including:
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series
- Google Pixel Fold
- OnePlus Open
- Honor Magic V series
- Huawei Mate X series
- Xiaomi Mix Fold series
Many of these devices use inward-folding designs, while Huawei remains one of the few major brands to commercialize an outward-folding smartphone.
Final Thoughts
The latest analyst report suggests Apple may be considering an outward-folding design for its first foldable iPhone, potentially differentiating it from most current foldable smartphones. Such a design could provide a sleeker profile and a larger usable display but would also require significant advancements in durability and display protection.
For now, the foldable iPhone remains firmly in the realm of speculation. With Apple yet to officially acknowledge the project, it may still be several years before consumers get a chance to see the company’s vision for foldable devices.
