Recent reports indicate that Apple is in the process of developing a foldable iPhone, and one of its key suppliers may gain significant advantages from the incorporation of a specific material. TF Securities International analyst Ming-Chi Kuo shared insights suggesting that rival smartphone manufacturers are also looking to adopt this material to remain competitive with Apple’s anticipated foldable device, which is expected to debut by the close of 2026.
Potential Features of Apple’s Foldable iPhone Include Liquid Metal Hinges
Kuo, in a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), stated that Dongguan Yi’an Technology is expected to supply components for Apple’s first foldable smartphone, potentially benefiting from the use of liquid metal in its hinges. This company is claimed to be the sole provider of the material, which is anticipated to play a crucial role in enhancing the durability of the device while also helping to minimize the appearance of a crease on the inner screen.
The analyst reported that Yi’an Technology had already supplied over 10 million shafts—vital for the foldable device’s hinge—by the end of last year. These components are being processed through die casting methods.
This is not the first instance of Apple utilizing liquid metal in its products. Kuo noted that the company’s SIM ejector tool is also crafted from the same material. However, the use of liquid metal in the upcoming foldable iPhone could provide significant advantages for Yi’an Technology.
Kuo speculated that Yi’an Technology’s revenues could potentially surge by up to 200 percent due to the materials supplied for the foldable iPhone, with projected revenue ranging between CNY 1.5 billion (approximately Rs. 1,780 crore) and CNY 2 billion (about Rs. 2,370 crore).
In addition, rumors suggest that Apple’s foldable iPhone may bear resemblance to the Oppo Find N, with a compact and thicker design. The device is expected to feature a 5.49-inch cover display along with a larger 7.74-inch inner display. Following the anticipated launch of the foldable iPhone next year, Apple has plans for additional foldable products, including a MacBook and an iPad model.
