A Triple Fold Not Enough? Apple Developing a Quad-Fold iPhone

As Apple moves forward with developing its first foldable iPhone, the company has recently applied for a new patent in the U.S., signaling plans to explore triple-fold and even quad-fold designs. Industry experts believe that the hinge mechanism will be a crucial component for foldable devices. As Apple advances toward triple- and quad-fold iPhones, Taiwan-based suppliers like Sunonwealth and Jarlly, which have been long-term partners for Apple’s hinges, are expected to benefit significantly.

Currently, Samsung leads the foldable phone market, with brands like OPPO and Motorola also making strides in this space. The release of the world’s first triple-fold phone by a Chinese manufacturer has drawn widespread attention, raising the stakes for Apple’s entry into the foldable market.

According to insiders, non-Apple brands are carving out a niche in the foldable market, prompting Apple to catch up. The latest patent points toward a quad-fold iPhone, sending a clear message that a triple-fold isn't enough. This development could ignite a new wave of excitement in the market.

Apple’s recently published patent, titled "Electronic Devices with Display and Touch Sensor Structures" (Patent No. US20240310942 A1), includes images demonstrating the technology applied to triple- and quad-fold devices. These details confirm that the patent is closely related to the development of multi-fold iPhones.

The patent highlights Apple's efforts to tackle potential display and touch challenges associated with multi-fold phones. Through this innovation, Apple aims to address the technical complexities posed by multiple hinges. Although the patent is still in its conceptual phase, industry insiders believe that Apple’s proactive patent filing indicates the company’s intent to position itself firmly in the multi-fold smartphone segment.