Apple has decided to temporarily halt the development of its foldable phone due to a problem with screen testing, according to a tipster. The company is reportedly experimenting with prototypes for clamshell-style foldable iPhone models. This move signifies Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone and tablet market, where it aims to compete with other brands such as Samsung.
It has been suggested that Apple is working on a 7.6-inch to 8.4-inch foldable device, which could potentially be either a foldable iPhone or a foldable iPad. While the company is actively engaged in research and development, the recent snag in the screen testing process has affected the timeline for the launch of its foldable products.
In a post on Weibo, a user referred to as Fixed Digital Focus (translated from Chinese) stated that Apple had bought foldable smartphones from rival brands for inspection and is accelerating its research and development. The post also mentioned that the project has experienced a setback due to unsatisfactory results in screen testing. This issue is expected to delay the release of the foldable product, which was originally rumored to be launched in 2026 or 2027.
Furthermore, there are speculations that Apple is working on at least two clamshell-style foldable iPhone models. These devices would compete with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip handsets and feature horizontally folding inner displays. Additionally, rumors suggest that Apple is developing a foldable smartphone or tablet with a significantly larger screen, ranging from 7.6 to 8.4 inches. This model has been rumored to replace the iPad Mini, which was last updated in 2021 with an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD panel.
Despite these developments, Apple’s official entry into the foldable phone market has yet to be announced. The company remains in the research and development phase and is not expected to launch anything soon. For the latest tech news and reviews, follow Gadgets 360 on X, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads, and Google News. Additionally, subscribe to their YouTube channel for the latest videos on gadgets and tech, and follow their in-house influencer content on Instagram and YouTube for further updates.